Preston Judd’s two goals put San Jose Earthquakes third after 3-1 win

San Jose Earthquakes beat Portland Timbers 3-1 in Major League Soccer at Avaya Stadium, with Preston Judd’s two recorded goals establishing the result before half-time.

Judd sets the early direction

Judd opened the scoring in the 4' minute, making it 1-0 for San Jose with an assist from Eduard Löwen. Löwen then scored in the 24' minute, assisted by Beau Leroux, to put the Earthquakes 2-0 ahead. Judd struck again in the 29' minute, with Paul Marie providing the assist for a 3-0 scoreline. That was also the half-time score.

Portland introduced Ian Smith, Eric Izoita and Antony in the 67' minute. Izoita later assisted David Da Costa, who scored in the 86' minute to make it 3-1. The goal was Portland’s last of the match, and San Jose completed the win.

Portland had more possession but fewer shots on target

Portland held 54% possession and completed 475 accurate passes, compared with San Jose’s 46% and 385 accurate passes. The Timbers also had 18 total shots to the Earthquakes’ 13. San Jose, however, recorded eight shots on goal against Portland’s six, a more direct measure that supported the home side’s three-goal advantage.

Judd was the standout performer, receiving a 9.3 match rating after two goals, three shots on target and 76 minutes. He was replaced by Luka Jovanovic in the 76' minute.

Provisional Western Conference positions

The provisional table lists San Jose Earthquakes third in the Western Conference on 45 points from 27 games, while Portland Timbers are 10th on 32 points from 27 games. San Jose are 13 points ahead of Portland (45 v 32) and trail Western Conference leaders Vancouver Whitecaps by five points. San Jose’s listed pre-match form ended with a draw; Portland’s ended with a loss.