FRISCO - FC Dallas is home for the second straight weekend as they host the Portland Timbers on Saturday night at 7 p.m. Here are some things to keep in mind as you get ready for the match:
On-Field
Top of the Table
Saturday's match will be an early-season showdown between No. 1 in the West, Portland, and No. 2, FCD. With two fewer games played than the Timbers, Dallas sits just two points back of their Cascadia foes.
No. 1 Offense vs. No. 1 Defense
Portland leads MLS with 18 goals scored in 2017, an average of 2.25 per game. Dallas has allowed the fewest number of goals per game, 0.50, with three goals given up in six games this year. The Timbers will, however, be without top threat Diego Valeri, who has five goals and four assists.
Franchise Start
FC Dallas is off to its best start in franchise history with 14 points points through their first six games. In 2013 and 2014, Dallas set the previous best of 13 points through six games.
Going Streaking
FC Dallas has beaten the Timbers in four straight regular season appearances and has won all five matches across all competitions at Toyota Stadium in 2017. The home side is riding an eleven-game unbeaten streak dating back to September 2016 and in undefeated in 31 of their last 33 matches in Frisco.
Defensive Distributor
Carlos Gruezo is known for his ability to cover ground and thwart opposing attacks in the midfield, but he's the only FCD player in 2017 to register a singe-game passing percentage rate over 90 percent and he's done it twice: April 8th vs. Minnesota (90.2%) and April 22nd vs. Sporting KC (95%)
In-Stadium
Game On, Rain or Shine
With the potential for inclement weather, questions undoubtedly arise about the state of the game. Rain or shine, #FCDvPOR will be played on Saturday night. The only possible weather delay would be if lightning strikes within a 10-mile radius of Toyota Stadium, which would initiate a 30 minute delay. The match can start as late as 11 p.m. and would only be postponed if it could not be completed before 1 a.m.
Lamar Hunt Scarfing
Our special guests scarfing the Lamar Hunt statue pregame are the Wakeland High School boys' soccer team that won the 13-5A District championship, the Region II championship and the Texas State Championship. Scarfing begins at 6:30, so don't miss out!
Jacori Autographs
Stick around after the match and get an autograph from FCD's first round SuperDraft in 2017, Jacori Hayes! Stop by the Winners Club, presented by WinStar World Casino and Resort after #FCDvPOR and meet the arrow-master himself.
Toyota Post-Game Show
Also in the Winners Club, presented by WinStar World Casino and Resort after the match, you can catch the Toyota Post-Game Show, hosted by Mark Followill and Steve Davis! They'll be be joined by Ryan Hollingshead and will break down all the action from #FCDvPOR. The show will also be streamed live on Facebook.
Chase-ing a Win
Chase cardholders will have an upgraded Toyota Stadium experience, with the ability to use "Fast Pass" entry at the East Gate or with a $5 popcorn and soda combo (normally $10) at concession stands 1, 3 and 9. Both are available by simply showing your Chase card at the gate or counter.