PORTLAND -- Former OSU men's soccer player Bryan Jordan scored his first goal as a professional player on May 9 in an exhibition match against Necaxa Elite from Mexico. Jordan’s goal was the game-winner as the Portland Timbers held on for a 1-0 win in front of 7,761 at Portland’s PGE Park.
At the 46-minute mark, Jordan capped a 40-yard run through the middle of the park with a hard shot from the top of the penalty area to the far post, past Necaxa goalkeeper Joel Barba. Jordan scored on his first shot as a Timber and celebrated with a flip, a familiar sight for Oregon State fans as he scored 15 goals in his career as a Beaver.
Two days later, Jordan figured in the scoring again as the Timbers drew with divisional rival Seattle Sounders, 2-2. Jordan scored and set up the game-tying goal late in the match before a crowd of 5,722 at PGE Park. In the 78th minute, Jordan followed a shot and scored on the deflection for his second goal in as many games. He had an earlier goal called back due to a hand ball on what was a well-placed shot.
Nine minutes later, Jordan set up the second Timber goal as he was pulled down in the penalty area. Andrew Gregor converted the penalty kick and the Timbers ended the game in a 2-2 draw. Jordan has made an impressive debut with the Timbers, scoring two goals and creating chances with his speed and endless work ethic. Jordan was also named to the USL First Division Team of the Week.
Despite his early and frequent success, Jordan remains humble, determined, and focused while sharing the formula that got him to the professional level, saying: "It's hard work and believing in myself. I came here (Portland) on a trial and when I got my chance I knew I had to shine — now I need to continue the hard work and be consistent."
On May 13, the Timbers had their third good result in five days by defeating the Rochester Rhinos 2-0, a game where Jordan was fouled frequently — a sign of respect from an opponent that took note of his success in his first two games as a pro.
