Colin's Keys to Friday's Cascadia tilt vs. Portland

Colin Miller's Keys to the Match

Tune in on matchdays for a one hour pre-match show and one hour post-match show as Colin Miller and Corey Basso call the action live on AM730.

Friday's pre-match show kicks off at 6 p.m. PT at whitecapsfc.com/am730.

Here are Colin’s keys for the first Cascadia battle versus Portland at BC Place since 2019.

Put the Timbers back four under pressure

Portland have given up 39 goals against this season.

That is the most in the Western Conference, and second most in the league ahead of only Toronto.

The ‘Caps need to put them under pressure with balls through and over the top.

Battle of the influencers

This match will feature two of the most dynamic attacking players in the league in Ryan Gauld and Sebastian Blanco.

Gauld as we know has played a massive role in driving the ‘Caps attack recently.

Blanco has been finding his form after returning this season from a torn ACL last year. He’s scored twice in his past three starts – both against Seattle.

Attacking set plays

Set plays have been very important for the ‘Caps this season.

They have scored eight goals from set pieces so far. The Timbers have conceded a league-leading 13 goals from set pieces.

Can the ‘Caps keep the influence going?