FC Dallas 2-1 Portland Timbers
FC Dallas head coach Oscar Pareja
General thoughts on the match…
It was a very exciting game for the fans who came out to support us. You could feel the energy from the fans and the energy they provided from the stands was awesome. Another thing was that the character and effort displayed from our players today was outstanding. There were also some beautiful goals that the audience enjoyed in front of a very good rival with a coach who we respect. They were a team that did a very good job last year and they measured us now to see where we are.
On Watson’s red card…
It happened too fast from where we were [to see]. The explanation from the referees was that there was retaliation but I did not see anything. I have to see the video. I spoke with the player and he said that he did not do anything. We have to respect the law and sometimes we may disagree, but that’s the way it is.
On continuing undefeated…
We’ve started well and we’re happy. We know where we are and we don’t want to think too much about what we have not done before. We’re developing a culture of taking it one game at a time, without giving importance to what happened last season or what will happen. The league is intense and the season is long. We have our feet on the ground and are taking it one game at a time.
On academy players seeing action…
It’s great to see our academy team up on the field. Our whole academy program and staff, the coaches, the people who have been part of this program for many years now are seeing their products on the field. I know a lot of people, especially our ownership, envisioned it that way. I know this is a night we won’t forget because we saw that play out on the field.
On how Victor Ulloa played in his first start tonight…
His second half was great. He proved to himself and many people that he can play this game. I’m very proud of Victor. For him, tonight is special because he is a kid who has overcome a lot of challenges. Tonight was a good show of that character. Soccer has not given him anything. He has earned it. Every inch he has gotten in this game, he’s earned.
