Portland Timbers Provide Another Tough Test For Orlando City’s Tommy Redding

Tommy Redding has taken hold of his spot in the starting lineup and is playing with the intention of never letting go.

After two solid performances against Real Salt Lake and the Chicago Fire, Redding shined in the Big Apple against New York City FC, playing a big part in shutting down David Villa and company in route to a 1-0 victory at Yankee Stadium.

Now, Redding is expected to make the start again for the Lions, who welcome the defending MLS Cup champions, the Portland Timbers, to the Citrus Bowl for what should be a great matchup between two of the league’s more exciting teams.

Portland boasts one of the league’s most dangerous attacks, running a front group that includes dynamic players such as Darlington Nagbe, Fanendo Adi, and Diego Valeri. Adi, who scored 16 times for Portland last season, and Valeri, who found the net 21 times between 2013 and 2014, present among the biggest challenges upfront for Redding and the Lions’ defense.

The Timbers have only scored fives times in MSL competition this season, taking four points from their first three games, but that won't stop them from showing off their skills against Orlando, who can easily be prone to giving up goals at home.

For Redding, a 19-year-old with loads of potential and United States national team prospects, every challenge is just another chance to take a step forward in his progression towards the top.

Expect Redding to get the nod again on Heath's back line on Sunday night and look for the up-and-coming player to rise to the challenge yet again.