Though only in the Rose City for two seasons from 2015-16, Portland Timbers goalkeeper Adam Kwarasey was an essential member of the team’s 2015 MLS Cup-winning season, backstopping the team to their championship 2-1 win against the Columbus Crew. He was also in net for the 2015 MLS Cup Playoffs Knockout Round Game against Sporting Kansas City – an epic, extra time, 11-round penalty kick shootout victory for Portland. That famous “Double Post Match” was won with Kwarasey powerfully converting his 11th round penalty kick attempt before then stoning his counterpart goalkeeper Jon Kempin’s shot in the match-deciding final round.
The Ghanian international also tied for the league lead in shutouts in 2015 (13) and won the 2015 MLS Save of the Year with an acrobatic stop of a volleyed shot from Real Salt Lake’s Luke Mulholland in Portland’s 1-0 away win on Aug. 15, 2015.
All told, Kwarasey appeared in 40 regular-season matches in his Timbers career, earning 13 shutouts – good for third all-time in the club’s MLS era.
From the Archives
Join us for the presentation of the Timbers All-Time XI on July 19 when the Timbers host Minnesota United!
Celebrating 50 years of the Timbers
Celebrating 50 years as a club, the Timbers honor the fan-vote, All-Time XI, Ring of Honor members and alumni from all eras. The match features a crossbody bag giveaway.
All-Time XI Eligibility:
The Timbers All-Time XI is comprised of one goalkeeper, three defenders, four midfielders, and three forwards – a 3-4-3 formation.
To be considered, fans voted on the 50 eligible players who met established criteria based upon career achievements as a Timbers player and were selected by a panel. Players had to meet one of the following criteria:
- Play a minimum of 100 league games for the club for field players; 50 league games for goalkeepers.
- Inducted into the Timbers Ring of Honor.
- Rank in the Top 5 (by era) in a career statistical category (games played, goals, assists, wins, shutouts, etc.) for the club.
- Be a key contributor in winning a championship or trophy.
- Receive league honors (All-League, Best XI, MVP, All-Star, Golden Boot, Rookie of the Year, etc.) as a member of the club.
