Many neutrals will be hoping the Timbers lose this weekend’s MLS Cup. But is the heat that comes their way deserved?It’s just as well the Portland Timbers maintain North American soccer’s most fervent and unwavering support behind them,because there’s certainly no shortage of haters. certain, their magnificent tifos are a bona fide work-of-art – and their attendance figures are mightily impressive, or too – but that hasn’t bought them much favour in MLS circles. The Columbus Crew will be getting plenty of neutral support in Sunday’s MLS Cup final.“Timbers fans can’t wait to become the most unbearable fan base in Major League Soccer,” reads the headline of one satirical article keen to point out the team’s perceived flaws. Indeed, there is a certain aura about the Timbers – they might say its self-assurance, and others might counter it as arrogance. Whatever it is,the Portland Timbers polarise opinion like no other North American soccer club. Related: The Joy of Six: hipsters' favourite football clubs | Barry Glendenning Continue reading...
Source: theguardian.com