Portland Timbers Secure Stoppage-Time Win Over St. Louis City

The Portland Timbers secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over St. Louis City SC with a stoppage-time goal by David Ayala, extending their home unbeaten streak to eight games. Playing under intense heat with temperatures in the mid-90s, the match saw Timbers goalkeeper James Pantemis make seven crucial saves, including a notable double save, in his first appearance since April. St. Louis took the lead in the 50th minute through Akil Watts, but Antony quickly equalized with a spectacular curling shot, marking his sixth goal of the season and making him the team's top scorer. Ayala's late volley from a corner kick sealed the win for Portland, who improved to 8-4-5 in the Western Conference standings. This match was St. Louis City's second under interim head coach David Critchley, following a recent managerial change, but resulted in their first defeat under his leadership. The Timbers will next face San Jose at home, maintaining momentum after this second consecutive 2-1 home win.