Dallas play host to Portland Timbers on Saturday night having failed to win either of their opening two fixtures in the new MLS season.

While the Timbers lost their opening game, they head into this contest on the back of a hard-fought victory over Houston Dynamo.

Match preview

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After reaching the last eight of the MLS playoffs last season, Dallas would have been hoping for a positive start to the campaign.

However, while they would have been content with a goalless draw against Colorado Rapids on matchday one, the 3-1 reverse to San Jose Earthquakes has left Luchi Gonzalez's team on the back foot.

The Hoops were blown away by three goals in the opening hour, their solitary goal from Ricardo Pepi in the 79th minute no more than a consolation.

Although Gonzalez will be aware that victory this weekend will get his team back in the mix, he will have concerns over their performance in California.

As far as the Timbers are concerned, Giovanni Savarese has been left encouraged by how his side have responded to their opening-day defeat to Vancouver Whitecaps.

Having edged out Houston Dynamo in the MLS, they backed that result up with a comeback draw against Club America in the Concacaf Champions League.

In theory, the Timbers should only benefit from the extra game time when many of their MLS rivals are still trying to get up to speed.

Nevertheless, there still needs to be a balancing act as the games continue to come at a relentless rate, something Savarese will have to take into account with his team selection.

Cristhian Paredes scored at both ends of the pitch against Houston, netting an own goal in the 28th minute before scoring the winner during the final quarter.

Team News

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After starting the Champions League fixture on the substitutes' bench, Paredes could return to the Timbers midfield.

Eryk Williamson may drop out of the starting lineup, while Pablo Bonilla is in line to come back into the side at right-back.

Gonzalez is expected to make a number of alterations to his Dallas XI after their capitulation against the Earthquakes.

Pepi could be rewarded for his goal last weekend with a start, while goalkeeper Phelipe is also expected to feature.

Andres Ricaurte and Paxton Pomykal will also be hoping for opportunities in the team.

Dallas possible starting lineup:
Phelipe; Hollingshead, Martinez, Hedges, Nelson; Tessmann, Ricaurte, Acosta; Obrian, Pepi, Vargas

Portland Timbers possible starting lineup:
Attinella; Bonilla, Mabiala, Tuiloma, Bravo; Chara, Paredes; Chara, Valeri, Asprilla; Mora

We say: Dallas 1-1 Portland Timbers

With neither team playing with a great deal of confidence, this could prove to be a tight game. Timbers will want to take advantage of facing a team which is yet to get three points on the board, but we are backing Dallas to earn a share of the spoils.

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