Today in Portland Timbers History: The Sunflower Goal

September 2 is the anniversary of what the Portland Timbers and their fans call the “Sunflower Goal.”

The “Sunflower Goal” has special importance to Timbers fans. It was a goal scored in the final game last season against Puerto Rico. The Timbers Army has a tradition of singing “You Are My Sunshine” in the 80th minute in honor of their retired mascot Timber Jim’s daughter Hannah Serrill. Timber Jim’s daughter died unexpectedly from a car accident on August 5th, 2004.

For this final game, the Timbers Army brought sunflowers to the match to give to the team. During the singing of “You Are My Sunshine” in the 83rd minute Ryan Pore headed in a ball to put the Timbers up 1-0 and to lead them to victory. The crowd went crazy with cheers and tears. A huge dance party took place on the streets outside the stadium after the game.

Watch this replay of the now infamous, “Sunflower Goal”…