Portland Timbers ready to make a statement in 2015 MLS playoffs

Underestimate the Portland Timbers at your own peril.

The team's head coach, Caleb Porter, sent a message of solidarity out after his side clinched a playoff berth with a 4-1 win over the Colorado Rapids, sharing with reporters his pride in his team's ability to perform on a tough Sunday night.

"Three games ago these guys were under pressure, and we were being questioned, and for good reason; we weren't getting the job done," Porter said after the match. "But the players answered the call. You know, don't count your chickens before they hatch."

In-form midfielder Darlington Nagbe, who is reportedly on the radar of the U.S. national team, scored twice on the day, breaking a streak of one-goal results for Portland in recent weeks. His performances - as with those of his teammates - has Porter feeling confident that the Timbers can compete for the MLS Cup this season.

"With the way the guys are playing right now, I wouldn't bet against them because we're getting the balance right," Porter said. "We've defended well all year, but now we're scoring goals. And when you get those things right and get momentum heading into the playoffs, you like your chances.

"This team has taken ownership. I've got guys in the locker room that grabbed the bull by the horns and they stepped up and answered the call and answered the criticism. And when you're getting players taking ownership like they have and playing for each other like they have, good things happen."