MLS Winners & Losers: Portland Timbers Break Record, Josh Sargent Shines, and Cavan Sullivan's Rise
Portland Timbers End Long Wait for First Hat-Trick
The Portland Timbers have been part of MLS since 2011, playing 522 games without a player scoring a hat-trick. While 67 players managed two goals in a single match, none had reached three until Vincent Janssen stepped up. The Dutch striker, known for his time backing up Harry Kane at Tottenham, made history by scoring the first-ever Timbers hat-trick in a thrilling 5-4 victory over Minnesota.
Janssen started strong, converting a penalty after just 11 minutes, adding a second goal 15 minutes later, and completing his hat-trick with a tap-in in the 55th minute. This performance might shape Portland’s push toward the playoffs as they cling to a spot in the standings.
Rising Star: Cavan Sullivan's Breakthrough
Cavan Sullivan has lived up to expectations since joining Philadelphia Union. Signed by Manchester City at 14, it was clear he had talent. Last season came too soon for him to shine fully, especially while the Union were performing well. But with the team struggling and a coaching change bringing interim boss Ryan Richter—who has known Sullivan since childhood—the young midfielder has flourished.
- Goals: 4
- Assists: 3
- Minutes played: 1,218
He scored again in a 2-0 win over Montreal, proving he can deliver at this level. Despite the team's current challenges, Sullivan is showing real promise.
Disappointment for Colorado Rapids
The Colorado Rapids shook things up this transfer window, signing four significant players after losing their top center back and leading scorer for a combined $35 million. This was unusual for a club known for cautious spending, reflecting faith in rookie head coach Matt Wells.
Yet, the offense has struggled, scoring only 31 goals so far. Wells wanted a stronger attack, but Saturday’s 3-0 loss highlighted ongoing issues. New signings Morgan Whittaker and Sayed Abu Farkhi were quiet on the field, leaving fans waiting for them to make an impact.
Weather Interrupts FC Cincinnati and D.C. United Match
Saturday night’s game between FC Cincinnati and D.C. United was postponed due to bad weather. Both teams warmed up twice before officials called off the match. Meanwhile, Inter Miami’s game against Atlanta United was delayed by thunderstorms.
D.C. United’s social media team added a humorous twist by tweeting "THE D.C, UNITED" amid the confusion.
Josh Sargent’s Strong Performance for Toronto FC
Toronto FC remains puzzling. Despite ranking eighth in payroll, they sit 11th in the Eastern Conference. Their attacking stats are generally poor except for goals per 90 minutes, where they rank 14th. Defensively, they struggle, conceding many goals from set pieces.
Signing Josh Sargent back in February seemed like a fix for deeper problems, but real results were slow. On Saturday, Sargent exploded with a hat-trick during a gritty 4-4 draw against Chicago Fire. Toronto has now gone six matches unbeaten, surprising many given their inconsistent form.
Penalty Miss Highlights Prince Owusu’s Night
Prince Owusu had a tough outing, missing one of the worst penalties you’ll see. It was a moment that stuck out amid an otherwise chaotic weekend.
