No one left standing after wild Portland Timbers vs LAFC showdown | OneFootball

Not every six-goal game is concluded on a fairdraw. But then that is exactly what happened at Providence Park. Portland Timbers and LAFC had one of the most challenging matches of the round, with a stunning free kick, see-saw lead changes, penalties, and even an ejected coach. The 3-3 draw had the feel of movie magic, fueled by outstanding performances. Bouanga and Giroud caused the damage for the visitors, and Felipe Mora once more came to the rescue for the home side. In the end, one point each and lots to take from it all.

Portland off the blocks early, top of the table, and Giroud's class

The first half at Providence Park got off to a cracking start. It was only seven minutes in, and Portland Timbers turned a box play into the advantage. Hugo Lloris took down Felipe Mora and did not waste the penalty. Shot converted, 1-0 on the scoreboard, and the stadium was electric.

Portland Timbers v Los Angeles Football Club | Soobum Im/GettyImages

The pace continued to be ferocious. Denis Bouanga, twice already to the score in the first ten minutes — both offside — was LAFC's most dreaded nickname. But it was Portland that got the back of the net again. In the 42nd minute, Santiago Moreno took advantage of some space and headed it into the back of the net, scoring 2-0 and giving the home team what seemed to be a comfortable lead.

Just looked like it. Three minutes and Olivier Giroud showed him he's still got magic in his bag. The French forward blasted in a free kick from close to the edge of the box with the final kick of the half. No beating Pantemis. Sharp, crisp ball that brought LAFC back in it and Giroud's first regular season MLS goal. Up until that point, he'd already tallied in the Leagues Cup final and US Open Cup final.

Halftime was 2-1, but with the clear feeling that the game was barely even near being done.

Close match, switching leads, and pressure

The second half was not letting up. LAFC emerged with greater push, and Bouanga kept driving the team ahead. At the 64th minute, he came in on the left side and delivered a low cross which found David Martínez in the box. The young forward just had to tap it home to take the score to 2-2.

But the party wasn't going to last. Two minutes later, Felipe Mora appeared in the center of defense and headed it home solidly to put Portland on top again. It was his second of the night, fourth of the season, and another reminder of what he means to the team. Mora has 43 goals for Portland in his career in MLS, and it makes him Portland's third leading scorer in club history.

Portland Timbers v Los Angeles Football Club | Soobum Im/GettyImages

Bouanga shines late and levels it

With the game running out of time, LAFC continued to push. And then in the 90th minute, pressure got its revenge. Bouanga, who had been causing Portland's defense so much torment, dribbled into the box and was brought down by Diego Chara. The ref waved for the penalty, and Bouanga took the shot himself. Keeper in one direction, ball in another, 3-3, at the death.

It was his second straight game with a goal after the longest goal drought of his MLS season, six straight games without scoring from February to April. Now, he seems to be picking up his rhythm again at a pivotal time in the season.

Portland Timbers v Los Angeles Football Club | Soobum Im/GettyImages

Cherundolo ejected in sideline drama

Head coach Steve Cherundolo was also making headlines. He was red-carded during the second half after being handed two yellow cards — the first coming early in the first half. That resulted in watching the end from a distance on the sidelines.

Portland's unbeaten run is still intact

On their part, Portland Timbers maintained their momentum. The side is now gone six straight games without losing, with three wins and three draws. Home-wise, it is two wins and two draws in four matches.

Their attack is equally impressive: they've had three or more goals in four of the last five games. That's 14 goals for and just seven against in that span. Their front line has remained consistent, even when the back line has stumbled.

Felipe Mora, again, delivered. With his brace against LAFC, he's tied with Antony for the team scoring lead this season. It was the first time he's had two goals in a game this season.