Travelling Fans to Receive Access to 500 tickets in Northwest Markets

Major League Soccer has approved a plan for the supporters groups from the Portland Timbers, Seattle Sounders FC, and Vancouver Whitecaps FC to purchase up to 500 tickets for away matches against their Cascadia rivals in 2011.

Although detailed operational plans are still being developed, the 500 tickets will be sold to each of the visiting clubs, who will then allocate those tickets to their travelling supporters groups.

“The Pacific Northwest derbies have a tremendous history dating back to the 70’s and we are pleased that all three clubs, with the support of Major League Soccer, have come together to create what will be an exciting and safe environment for all fans to enjoy,” said Paul Barber, chief executive officer, Whitecaps FC. “Supporters culture in soccer is special and unique, and today’s agreement is a positive step in the right direction.”

"The approved plan to allocate 500 tickets for visiting supporters will help grow a rivalry that is unique to this region," said Joe Roth, Sounders FC owner. "The three clubs, along with Major League Soccer, are committed to fostering local rivalries as well as providing visiting supporters an opportunity to support their clubs on the road."

The rivalry between the three clubs dates back to the old North American Soccer League. Seattle Sounders and Vancouver Whitecaps entered that league in 1974, while Portland Timbers followed suit in 1975. The Pacific Northwest rivalry was rekindled in the 1990s when the clubs competed in North America's second division professional leagues.

Whitecaps FC and Timbers will join MLS in 2011 as the 17th and 18th clubs; Sounders FC made its MLS debut in 2009. The complete 2011 MLS schedule will be released in the coming months. Prior to the start of the 2011 season, MLS will announce League-wide guidelines for travelling supporters.

** I think this is a fantastic move, here's why:
- Adds a little spice between the northwest opponents
- creates a rivalry among the fans
- helps to build traveling supporters
- the limited tickets (500) means it'll be a tough ticket to get. Plus, it looks better than having the potential of 1000 tickets available and only 400 going.

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