The Portland Timbers opened their 2013 season with a draw at home Sunday night against the New York Red Bulls. Portland went down 1-0 early, tied the game quickly, and then found itself behind 3-1 at halftime.

The Timbers dominated play in the second half, tied the game 3-3, and almost won in the waning minutes. This would not have happened in 2011 or 2012. A national television audience saw a very different Timbers team — one that fights until the final whistle. This team displayed grit, a little nastiness, and the ability to play some beautiful soccer.

While 2013 will be a wild season with plenty of ups and downs, it’s great to see the team form an identity. It looks as though the Timbers are finally on the right track, and I’m looking forward to attending my first match of the year next week versus Montreal.

Here are the crazy highlights of tonight’s game from ESPN2: