Soccer Made in Portland
185 episodes - English - Latest episode: 8 days ago - ★★★★★ - 95 ratingsA weekly Portland Timbers and Thorns podcast hosted by The Oregonian/OregonLive's beat reporter, Ryan Clarke, and supporter and longtime blogger Chris Rifer.
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Episodes
Tale of two halves for the Timbers
April 11, 2024 21:09 - 35 minutesIt’s been a trend all season: one good half, one rough half for the Portland Timbers. Saturday’s 3-3 draw with SKC was a nice turnaround, but how can Portland put together a complete performance? Chris Rifer and Ryan Clarke break it down on this week’s Soccer Made in Portland. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Recapping a rough three weeks for the Timbers and Thorns
April 03, 2024 17:38 - 51 minutesEver since Soccer Made in Portland co-host Ryan Clarke left for a vacation to South Korea and Japan, it’s been rough sailing for the Portland Timbers and Thorns. This begs the question: is it his fault? On this week’s episode, Ryan returns to join co-host Chris Rifer in reflecting on three straight losses for the Timbers, and evaluating a Thorns team still trying to shake off the cobwebs early in its season. Plus, discussion on Sophia Smith’s contract extension and the experience of watching ...
Thorns season preview, Timbers’ dramatic win in NYC
March 13, 2024 20:03 - 49 minutesIt’s officially Thorns o’clock, Rose City. The Portland Thorns open their season on Saturday at the KC Current. This week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland has a full season preview. Plus, co-hosts Ryan Clarke and Chris Rifer recap last weekend’s dramatic 2-1 victory for the Timbers over NYCFC thanks to some guy named Evander Golazo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Germán Berterame rumors heat up, Timbers drop points vs. D.C. United
March 07, 2024 20:00 - 46 minutesIs silly season extending into the actual season? The Portland Timbers are reportedly hot on the trail of Argentine striker Germán Berterame with a $15 million bid, but is the deal going to get done? And what of the apparent other option, Jonathan “Cabecita” Rodríguez? On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, co-hosts Ryan Clarke and Chris Rifer cut through the noise to deliver analysis of the potential big transfer to come for the Timbers. Plus, a look back at a confounding second ...
Timbers drop DaBella sponsorship, pick up a big win in opener
March 01, 2024 22:02 - 42 minutesThe Phil Neville era with the Portland Timbers is off to a great start on the field. A 4-1 win over the Colorado Rapids in the opener showed plenty of quality, but can the Timbers bottle that up and keep it rolling against D.C. United in game two? On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, an Oregonian Sports podcast, Ryan Clarke and Chris Rifer examine what’s gone right for the Timbers so far and talk transfer rumors. Oh, yeah, and that whole DaBella thing. Learn more about your ad c...
Timbers 2024 season preview, Thorns check-in
February 15, 2024 18:56 - 1 hourIt’s getting real, folks. The Portland Timbers’ 2024 season starts next week, and Soccer Made in Portland has you covered with all the latest ahead of Portland’s Feb. 24 season-opener at home against the Colorado Rapids. Plus, co-hosts Chris Rifer and Ryan Clarke discuss the latest transactions for the Portland Thorns, projecting out an impressive starting XI and taking a look at how all the pieces fit together. Are the Thorns contenders again? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphon...
Thorns make some moves, Timbers preseason approaches
January 25, 2024 19:50 - 1 hourThe Portland Thorns re-signed veteran contributors, traded away a fan favorite, and are reportedly bringing in a newcomer for a major fee. The offseason is offseason-ing! On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, an Oregonian Sports podcast, Ryan and Chris discuss the Thorns’ moves, plus where things stand for the Timbers ahead of Saturday’s preseason opener in Phoenix and the team’s upcoming trip to the Coachella Valley Invitational. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone...
Thorns sale finalized, Timbers offseason picks up
January 05, 2024 19:28 - 55 minutesThe Portland Thorns have been sold to the Bhathal family. The Portland Timbers have made their first big move of the offseason, bringing in a new center back. And winter rolls along as PTFC enters a new era in 2024. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris break down the latest news for the Thorns and Timbers, and chart the future for both teams in the months to come. Plus, a special announcement about the future of the podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit...
Debriefing the Timbers' and Thorns' offseason so far, plus what needs to happen next
December 20, 2023 23:15 - 1 hourThe Portland Thorns and Timbers are in the midst of two crucial offseasons. But what all has happened so far, and what more needs to happen for both teams to contend in 2024? On a holiday episode of Soccer Made in Portland, an Oregonian Sports podcast, Chris Rifer and Ryan Clarke examine the moves made by both Portland teams and discuss the potential moves to come. A sale is looming over a pivotal few months for the Thorns, and the Timbers enter the Phil Neville era with plenty of questions a...
Thorns post-mortem, Phil Neville’s introductory presser
November 09, 2023 21:51 - 1 hourThe Portland Thorns will not play for the NWSL championship in 2023 following a 1-0 loss to Gotham FC in the NWSL semis. After an up-and-down season, they face an uncertain offseason with the team’s sale looming and plenty of crucial roster moves to be made. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, an Oregonian Sports podcast, Chris and Ryan look ahead to a pivotal next few months for the Thorns with the expansion draft, free agency, and potential contract extensions on the docket. ...
EMERGENCY POD: Timbers set to hire Phil Neville
November 04, 2023 17:17 - 38 minutesThe Portland Timbers are in the final stages of hiring Phil Neville as their next head coach. In an emergency episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Chris Rifer and Ryan Clarke discuss the merits of the hire, how the Portland soccer community has reacted, and where the club finds itself ahead of the official announcement. And, much to the disappointment of some listeners, Chris does not swear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Previewing the Thorns’ semifinal matchup with Gotham
November 02, 2023 20:18 - 41 minutesThe Portland Thorns’ road ahead is simple: win a home game vs. NJ/NY Gotham FC on Sunday, and you’re in the championship match in San Diego the following week. But the task itself is far from simple, as Gotham comes in playing lights-out footy and the Thorns have been off for three weeks reflecting on a rough loss to finish off the regular season. This week on Soccer Made in Portland, an Oregonian Sports podcast, Chris and Ryan preview Portland vs. Gotham in the NWSL semifinals, breaking down...
Timbers 2023 post-mortem
October 27, 2023 18:29 - 52 minutesDecision Day didn’t go as planned for the Portland Timbers, who are out of the postseason for the second consecutive year. Where does the club go from here, with general manager Ned Grabavoy eyeing plenty of change ahead in the offseason?This week on Soccer Made in Portland, Chris and Ryan look back at what went wrong in 2023 for the Timbers, but primarily look at what changes are already happening and others that could be on the horizon in the coming months. After several years of continuity...
Thorns whiff, Timbers have it on a tee
October 20, 2023 22:12 - 50 minutesThe Portland Thorns lost out on yet another shield on the final day of the regular season. Are they going to turn it around come playoff time and capture a second consecutive NWSL title?And with a win-and-they’re-in scenario ahead of the Portland Timbers against Houston, how could it all play out in a messy Western Conference?This week on Soccer Made in Portland, Chris and Ryan break down what fell apart for the Thorns in a 5-1 drubbing at Angel City, and look ahead to a make-or-break weekend...
Timbers teeter, Thorns on the brink of a shield
October 11, 2023 21:53 - 48 minutesThe Portland Thorns are a win away from capturing another NWSL shield, heading down to Los Angeles for the final match of the regular season against Angel City FC. The Portland Timbers faltered in Montreal, but their postseason hopes remain alive with one match left against Houston on Oct. 21. This week on Soccer Made in Portland, Chris and Ryan look back on the weekend of games for PTFC, examine what lies ahead for the Thorns vs. Angel City, and break down Alaska Airlines’ decision to end ...
The home stretch is here for the Timbers and Thorns
October 06, 2023 17:34 - 44 minutesThe Portland Timbers and Thorns each have two matches left in the regular season, and both are in the playoff hunt. It’s exciting times in the Rose City as October arrives. This week on Soccer Made in Portland, special guest co-host Alex Barnes of Stumptown Footy joins the show to discuss the Timbers’ recent form and potentially dynasty-altering moments ahead for the Thorns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Feelin' good on a Thursday
September 21, 2023 23:00 - 53 minutesFall is here, and with it comes good fortune for the Portland Timbers and Thorns. The Timbers have won three in a row and are 4-1-1 under interim coach Miles Joseph, surging back into the playoff picture. The Thorns, meanwhile, are back atop the NWSL standings after dispatching Megan Rapinoe and OL Reign, 2-0, with just three matches remaining. Cozy up with your hot cocoa, comfy sweater and a nice blankie over your feeties, and enjoy this week's episode of Soccer Made in Portland. Learn more...
Timbers’ big win over LAFC, Thorns face Megan Rapinoe and OL Reign
September 15, 2023 18:18 - 51 minutesThe Portland Thorns have one of their biggest matches of the season Saturday as Megan Rapinoe and OL Reign come to town. The Portland Timbers aim to build on an impressive 2-0 win over LAFC with a strong result on the road at Austin FC on Sunday, and they will be missing Diego Chará. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Chris and Ryan discuss what could be described as the best performance of the season for the Timbers, who look like they have new life under interim coach Mile...
Timbers show life in Seattle, Thorns slip up in loss to Louisville
September 07, 2023 20:11 - 54 minutesThe NWSL season is getting down to the final stretch, and the Portland Thorns hope to leave a bad performance in Louisville behind them. The Portland Timbers, meanwhile, just want to put together a full 90 minutes of quality play. The final 45 against Seattle over the weekend need to be bottled. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Chris and Ryan break down the Timbers’ comeback draw at the Sounders, look ahead to LAFC, and wade into Messi-mania. On the Thorns side, they chat ...
Thorns in strong form, Timbers and Moreno bounce back
August 31, 2023 19:28 - 1 hourThe Portland Thorns can breathe a sigh of relief with Sophia Smith’s injury not as serious as some feared. And the Portland Timbers can do the same after a much-needed win and bounce back performance for Santiago Moreno. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Chris and Ryan discuss how tactical shifts have solidified the Thorns ahead of a late-season run to the playoffs, and how the team will fare without Smith for a few weeks. Plus, they encourage Timbers fans to just say no to...
Gio Savarese fired by the Timbers, a signature win for the Thorns, and special guest Janine Beckie!
August 22, 2023 23:44 - 1 hourIt has been a rollercoaster of emotions in 48 hours for fans of the Portland Timbers and Thorns. The Timbers got trounced in Houston; the Thorns pulled out a signature, 2-1 win over North Carolina despite being down a player for nearly the entire match; and coach Giovanni Savarese and the Timbers parted ways. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, co-hosts Ryan Clarke and Chris Rifer break down the Savarese firing and what it means for the Timbers’ future. Later, they revel in the...
Chris is back to discuss Timbers’ form, Thorns entering home stretch
August 18, 2023 20:43 - 1 hourIt wasn’t just the Portland Timbers and Thorns who took some time off: Soccer Made in Portland co-host Chris Rifer did, too. Although he was running, eating and sipping his way through Italy. A familiar experience for co-host Ryan Clarke, save for the running. On this week’s episode, Chris and Ryan examine what can be gleaned from the Timbers’ form in Leagues Cup, and the storylines heading into the final 11 matches of the 2023 season. A potential dynasty hangs in the balance for the Thorns...
Ned Grabavoy talks transfer window, future moves, pizza recipes
August 09, 2023 22:20 - 34 minutesThe Portland Timbers added three new faces in the summer transfer window: defender Miguel Araujo, midfielder Bryan Acosta, and winger Antony. Now, the club is looking to the future with an eye on building out the roster even further with a lot of potential moving parts. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, host Ryan Clarke sits down with Timbers general manager Ned Grabavoy to discuss the summer window, the upcoming offseason, potential MLS roster rules changes, and top-secret...
Bill Oram talks Thorns sale update, MLS transfer deadline, World Cup
August 02, 2023 19:23 - 1 hourThe Portland Thorns shared an update on their forthcoming sale, the Portland Timbers advanced in Leagues Cup, and the USWNT continues to underwhelm on the World Cup stage. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Oregonian sports columnist and noted visitor of local libraries Bill Oram joins the show. Oram and Ryan Clarke discuss what we learned from the long-awaited Thorns sale update, Timbers results and roster moves at the transfer deadline, and an ingenious four-year-old’s Wor...
Thorns players speak out on turf, Timbers pick up an emotional win
July 20, 2023 20:08 - 54 minutesThe Portland Timbers honored Diego Valeri with an emotional, rollercoaster win over the Columbus Crew on Saturday. And with no games on the docket last week, the Portland Thorns are speaking out about training conditions and calling for a switch to grass at Providence Park along with their own training facility. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris discuss the Thorns’ move toward a new training facility, what it means for the ownership situation, and why it matt...
Thorns drop another one, Santiago Moreno drama continues
July 13, 2023 19:20 - 54 minutesThe Portland Thorns are on a two-game losing skid without their World Cup participants. The Portland Timbers are struggling to climb back into the playoff picture, and the status of Santiago Moreno after a transfer request remains uncertain. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Chris and Ryan break down the Thorns’ loss to Gotham and look ahead to a potential dynasty-defining stretch: how will role players develop in this crucial run of games this summer? Oh, yeah, and the T...
EMERGENCY POD: Santiago Moreno requests a transfer
July 06, 2023 01:02 - 49 minutesThe Portland Timbers face a crossroads in their season: midfielder Santiago Moreno has requested a transfer. On this week’s emergency episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Chris and Ryan make siren noises and discuss what Moreno’s request means for the Timbers — and coach Giovanni Savarese — moving forward. Are there culture issues bubbling over with this team? Is Savarese’s seat growing warmer as a result of his now public rift with Moreno? Plus, what can we glean from the Thorns’ odd 1-0 ...
Sophia Smith goes nuclear, Timbers sign their center back
June 30, 2023 19:16 - 41 minutesWhat a World Cup sendoff that was for Portland Thorns star Sophia Smith. A hat trick for the reigning NWSL MVP propelled Portland to a 4-2 win over the Washington Spirit last weekend, and now the Thorns press on without Smith and five other World Cup participants. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Chris and Ryan discuss Smith’s dominant outing and the big tests coming up for Mike Norris and company. They also break down the Timbers’ 1-1 draw against NYCFC, Evander’s suspe...
Timbers show who they really are, Thorns say goodbye to World Cup players
June 22, 2023 19:09 - 1 hourThe Portland Timbers are who we thought they were. At least that’s how Soccer Made in Portland co-host Chris Rifer sees it. On this week’s episode, Rifer and Ryan Clarke discuss the Timbers’ sputtering loss to the Chicago Fire and diagnose the myriad issues facing a team that sits outside the MLS Cup playoff picture. Before that, though, plenty to talk about with the Portland Thorns’ recent run of play, which has not lived up to the club’s championship standards. Plus, a 2023 FIFA World Cup ...
Thorns earn a signature win, MLS lands Lionel Messi
June 08, 2023 18:52 - 57 minutesThe Portland Thorns earned their biggest win of the season, 2-0 over OL Reign on Saturday in Seattle. The Timbers, meanwhile, played in one of the least interesting games of the season, a 0-0 draw with the Sounders. But, hey! Look! It’s Lionel Messi! On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris discuss the Thorns’ statement victory, the ugliness of the Timbers’ draw, and what Messi coming to MLS means for the league’s future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megap...
Morgan Weaver’s ‘scorpion flick,’ the Timbers hit a low point
June 01, 2023 19:36 - 56 minutesThe Portland Thorns got a big win in the NWSL Challenge Cup on Wednesday thanks to a clutch goal from Morgan Weaver. The Portland Timbers, meanwhile, hit a low point (so far) in what has been a difficult season, falling 4-1 on Sunday against Sporting Kansas City. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris break down a crucial three points for the Thorns against Angel City and analyze the midfield balance, the Thorns’ ability to hang on to leads, and more. Plus, a glor...
When the critics get too critical
May 25, 2023 19:27 - 54 minutesThe Portland Timbers are near the bottom of MLS in points per game. The Portland Thorns broke out of their rut with a vengeance, beating Chicago 4-0 on Sunday ahead of a crucial matchup with San Diego on Friday. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Chris and Ryan discuss whether the “critics” are being too critical of the Timbers, and what Sunday’s big win means for the Thorns’ fortunes in 2023. Plus, what does the future hold with so little buzz about the Thorns’ sale? Learn ...
Timbers can turn it around, Thorns in a weird stretch
May 18, 2023 21:50 - 55 minutesThe Portland Timbers got two positive results and might be changing their fortunes thanks to Evander’s brilliance. The Portland Thorns, meanwhile, are lacking confidence and on three-game winless skid. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris discuss what it’s going to take for this positive regular-season stretch to be considered a turnaround for the Timbers. And they take a look at the Timbers’ salaries, released this week by the MLSPA. Plus, what’s wrong with the...
Timbers flailing, Thorns seeking better defense
May 11, 2023 21:42 - 54 minutesOn this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Chris lays it all out as plainly as he can: it was a rough week for a Timbers team that has yet to prove itself and sits on the playoff fringe. Plus, Chris and Ryan discuss the recent defensive issues for the Thorns. And is Sophia Smith somehow becoming even more dominant? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bella Bixby is the hero the Thorns needed
May 04, 2023 17:30 - 54 minutesThe Portland Timbers may be turning a corner despite continually dealing with injuries, and the Portland Thorns remain undefeated despite some imperfect performances as of late. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris break down the Timbers’ win over St. Louis, examine what can be gleaned from Sportico’s $685 million valuation of PTFC, and relive the thrill of Bella Bixby’s back heel goal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ryan and Emma found a bird’s nest
April 27, 2023 21:36 - 1 hourThe Portland Timbers are moving on in the U.S. Open Cup, but the jury is still out on this team after a tough regular-season loss to FC Cincinnati despite better form. On the other side, the Thorns are rolling and remain undefeated. Do the champs have any flaws? On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris discuss meeting each other in-person for the first time (yes, really) and recap the week gone by for PTFC. Plus, Ryan and Emma discovered a cute little bird’s nest in a...
Give Chris a billion dollars, let’s see what happens
April 20, 2023 20:17 - 57 minutesThe Portland Timbers throttled rival Seattle 4-1 on Saturday, a moment that could serve as a catalyst for a much-needed turnaround. The Thorns, meanwhile, are taking plenty of shots but not converting as many as they’d like. But no need to worry about the defending NWSL champs yet. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan returns from Vegas to discuss the games he missed, and Chris provides his analysis of those matches while also pitching someone to give him a billion dollars....
The Portland Thorns have a new forward in the mix for a few months: Canadian international Adriana Leon
April 13, 2023 22:05 - 1 hourThe Portland Thorns have a new forward in the mix for a few months: Canadian international Adriana Leon. The rich are getting richer, and they’re back on the field Friday against Houston after a nearly two-week international break. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris discuss what to expect from Leon while she remains on loan with the Thorns. Plus, can the Timbers use a highly anticipated Seattle match to reverse their early season fortunes? Learn more about your ...
Timbers at a potential turning point, Thorns keep getting better
April 06, 2023 19:43 - 1 hourSophia Smith is a supernova for the Portland Thorns. Why isn’t she getting the recognition she deserves on the national stage? Will this World Cup be her breakthrough as an international sports icon? On the latest episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris discuss the Thorns’ convincing 4-1 win over Kansas City, and the Franck Boli-led Timbers’ well-earned 1-1 draw at FC Dallas. Could this be the moment the Timbers pick themselves up and turn things around? Learn more about your ad ch...
The ever-growing chasm between the Thorns and Timbers
March 29, 2023 22:11 - 1 hourThe Portland Thorns are already rolling, fresh off a 4-0 win over Orlando in the opener. Can they be stopped? Conversely, can the Timbers regain their confidence in the midst of injury and uninspired play? On the latest episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris discuss the Thorns’ dominant win and the Timbers’ brutal 0-0 draw vs. the LA Galaxy. Plus, some unprecedented locker room drama on the Timbers side. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Timbers are struggling mightily. What should we expect from them this season?
March 23, 2023 21:20 - 52 minutesOn the latest episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris discuss what to expect from this Thorns season, plus they recap the Timbers’ struggles. Are they backsliding to the middle tier of MLS? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sophia Smith wants to destroy the world with her right foot
March 17, 2023 04:38 - 46 minutesIt’s all systems go for the Thorns. Meanwhile, the Timbers are almost more injured than healthy. On the latest episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris talk about the Thorns brilliant form and the already doomsday-like feeling around the Timbers. Slap on some headphones and go on a walk and catch up with all things soccer. Timestamps: (0:00 - 5:00) - Matthew McConaughey and the worst MLS loss ever (5:00 - 25:00) - Timbers looking rough 25:00 - full time) - Thorns are in mid-season f...
New Thorns kit, preseason tournament preview
March 09, 2023 20:59 - 59 minutesThe Portland Thorns have a new kit, and it’s making waves with fans for its — bold — style. But hey, at least it’s not boring. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan and Chris debate the controversial kit, preview the upcoming Thorns preseason tournament, and recap the Timbers’ recent game against LAFC. Timestamps: (0:00 - 5:45) Ryan’s Chianti-fueled trip to Italy (5:45 - 18:00) Philosophical debate on the new Thorns kit (18:00 - 35:00) Thorns preseason tournament preview (35...
Timbers home opener recap, plus some Blazers banter
March 02, 2023 01:03 - 56 minutesRyan’s in Italy, so this week’s Soccer Made in Portland is a crossover episode with the Sports by Northwest podcast. Bill Oram joins Chris Rifer to share some of his mind-blowing wisdom about all things soccer. On the roster: Bill and Chris discuss Bill’s pun game, how Chauncey Billups is doing so far as coach of the Blazers, the Timbers home opener, and the Thorns preseason tournament announcement. Timestamps: (0:00 - 2:20) Ryan’s Italian escapades (2:20 - 15:45) Blazers (15:45 - 20:00) Bi...
Portland Timbers season preview, plus a Gio Savarese interview
February 16, 2023 20:18 - 1 hourThe MLS season is quickly approaching, and the Portland Timbers have new faces chasing the same old goal: Raising the cup. On the latest episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Ryan Clarke and Chris Rifer go deep on the season to come. They hit on the Evander signing, Bill Tuiloma’s trade and much more. On the first half of the show, Ryan interviewed head coach Gio Savarese. Timestamps: (0:00 - 35:00) - Gio Savarese interview (35:00 - full time) - Portland Timbers season preview Subscribe to Socc...
Interview with new Thorns coach Mike Norris
February 07, 2023 01:50 - 31 minutesThe Portland Thorns are back from Bend, and the 2023 preseason is well underway. On the docket: trying to pick up the pieces after Rhian Wilkinson’s resignation, navigating the team’s sale after a flurry of off-field scandals, and repeat as NWSL champions. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, new Thorns coach Mike Norris joins the show to discuss the team’s trip to Bend, how the group is gelling so far, his journey to becoming a first-year head coach, and a health update on reig...
An interview with Timbers GM Ned Grabavoy
February 02, 2023 20:15 - 32 minutesThe Portland Timbers have redemption on the mind entering 2023 after missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016. At the helm of the club’s soccer operations is Ned Grabavoy, a longtime MLS player turned essential member of the PTFC front office. Grabavoy brought the club-record Evander signing over the line in December, but it’s otherwise been a relatively quiet offseason for the Timbers. What’s next for Portland’s roster, particularly that previously discussed pursuit of a striker? H...
Interview with new Timbers and Thorns CEO Heather Davis
January 27, 2023 14:00 - 56 minutesThe Portland Timbers and Thorns front office has a new leader: former general counsel Heather Davis. Davis makes history as the club’s first female CEO and the fifth woman leading a MLS front office, and she comes into the job with plenty of challenges after 16 consecutive months of scandal for PTFC. She will preside over the business and operations of the Timbers and — until Merritt Paulson sells — the Thorns. On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, co-hosts Ryan Clarke and Chris ...
NWSL draft preview, a pair of PTFC hires
January 12, 2023 23:00 - 59 minutesIs it okay to wish someone a happy New Year halfway into January? Are a pair of recent PTFC hires exciting enough for Thorns and Timbers fans? On this week’s episode of Soccer Made in Portland, Chris and Ryan debate when it’s time to stop wishing folks a happy New Year and discuss the NWSL draft, a couple of new PTFC hires, and their otherworldly experiences at a few Portland restaurants. Timestamps: (0:00 - 1:30) A debate on how far into a new year you’re allowed to say Happy New Year (1:30 ...
Remembering Grant Wahl, breaking down the NWSL report, looking ahead to 2023
December 15, 2022 19:20 - 1 hourIt’s the final pod of 2022. And what a year it has been. The Thorns won the championship, the Timbers narrowly missed the playoffs, and the club found itself embroiled in constant controversy right up until year’s end. As the dust settles and Soccer City looks ahead to 2023, hosts Ryan Clarke and Chris Rifer look back at the big on- and off-field storylines for PTFC. Plus, Ryan and Chris break down the damning details of the NWSL report and pay tribute to soccer journalism legend Grant Wahl. ...