"The Aug. 10 match between the Portland Thorns and the Seattle Reign looked like countless other NWSL matches at Providence Park in downtown Portland over the years. The stadium's North End, home to Thorns supporters group Rose City Riveters, kept up a steady beat of chants and songs. The Pride flags and Cascadia banners were draped over the railing. A crowd of 21,811 fans enjoyed a 4-2 victory over their longtime rivals."
"There were no "Sell The Team" signs, nor were there any "You Knew" banners, a reference to the abuse scandal that rocked the team -- and the NWSL as a whole -- starting back in 2021. The reason for this was simple: A change in ownership in early 2024 meant that Merritt Paulson -- who long caught the ire of fans -- was out, and RAJ Sports, headed by the Bhathal family, was in."
The Aug. 10 match at Providence Park featured a crowd of 21,811 and a 4-2 Portland victory against Seattle, with Pride flags, Cascadia banners and Rose City Riveters chants. Compared to 2022-23, protest signage such as "Sell The Team" and "You Knew" banners were absent. A 2024 ownership change removed Merritt Paulson and installed RAJ Sports, led by the Bhathal family. Fan comfort and enthusiasm increased, with supporters reporting reduced inner conflict attending matches. Decoupling the Thorns from the Timbers organization has been uneven and remains an ongoing process with residual growing pains.
Read at ESPN.com
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