Rapids-Timbers preview

Seasoned U.S. national team goalkeeper Tim Howard will make his MLS debut for first-place Colorado when the Rapids host the defending-champion Portland Timbers on Monday at Dick's Sporting Goods Park.

Howard has been a part of national team since 2002 and played overseas for several years, before signing with the Rapids this summer.

"I just want to get out there," Howard said at his introductory press conference. "It's what I do, it's where I'm happiest. The sooner I can get on the field, the better. It's been a long time coming just because of the way the seasons are structured both here in MLS and abroad."

The addition of Howard bolsters an already stingy Rapids defense that had surrendered the fewest goals in the league halfway through the season.

The Timbers (6-6-5) are in fifth place in the Western Conference standings, nine points behind the first-place Rapids (9-2-5). Both teams are coming off losses in the U.S. Open Cup.

Portland is looking for its first road victory of the season. Picking it up at Colorado could spark a second-half run for the Timbers, who made a late push last season and raced through the postseason to the MLS title.

The Timbers arrive in good form and on a four-game unbeaten streak in MLS play. They overcame a 2-0 deficit to be Houston in their last regular-season match.

Portland's offense is bolstered by Fanendo Adi and Valeri. The Timbers are the fifth-highest scoring team in the MLS. But their defense hasn't kept pace. They have conceded 29 goals, the second most in the league.

Howard rejoins his former U.S. national team teammate Jermaine Jones, who is one of the Rapids' leaders. Jones and forward Luis Solignac are tied for the team high with three goals.

The Timbers have won three of the last four meetings with Colorado, with one draw. The two Western Conference contenders will meet twice more this season: on Oct 1 in Colorado and Oct. 16 at Providence Park.