Approaching the midpoint of their first season, Portland Timbers 2 are sitting ninth among 12 teams in the Western Conference of the United Soccer League.

The T2 project is a work in progress, but for Caleb Porter the second-tier team is an important development for future MLS Timbers.

“We’re having the opportunity to evaluate players. It’s a breeding ground. I watch every game. I keep tabs on the players that are there,” the Timbers coach said.

The next test for T2 comes today at the University of Portland’s Merlo Field. After five consecutive road matches, Portland hosts the Austin Aztex in a 6 p.m. USL match. Tickets cost $10 to $15. A live webstream will be available at www.timbers2.com..

Porter said he is pleased that he has been able to get some T2 games for Timbers who are not seeing game time at the MLS level.