Additional security checks at Toyota Stadium ahead of Timbers clash

Since the attempted attack on the Stade de France earlier this month, stadium security has come into focus across the sporting world. Providence Park staff held extensive security checks before last weekend's MLS Western Conference final first leg. Red Bull Arena released an advisory that opaque bags, larger than a small clutch, would not be admitted. CoAll of the major professional leagues have received advice from the Department of Homeland Security and passed this on to their member teams. As such, FC Dallas will be beefing up their own security procedures at tomorrow's second leg against the Portland Timbers.

According to FC Dallas' Director of Safety & Security, Gina McFarlin, the first thing fans will notice is an increased police and security presence around the parking lots and the stadium perimeter. Inside the stadium, there will be extra police, and both armed and unarmed security guards. A slightly less severe policy on bags, to that of New York Red Bulls, will be instituted. Fans will be permitted to take a bag of up to 12"x12"x12" in size, subject to the usual search policy. There will be a second layer of security upon entering the stadium, in that walk-through metal detectors will be used, as is the case in many NFL stadiums.

After an incident last year between some local Portland fans, and Dallas fans in the neighboring section, the approximately 250 traveling fans will be housed in section 122. Timbers Army and Lone Star Brigade will tailgate on the west side of Toyota Stadium, away from the Dallas Beer Guardians, Lone Star Legion, and El Matador tailgate on the southeast corner. There are differing plans of egress for away fans, dependent on the result.

Gates will open at 2pm, an extra half hour early, and FC Dallas do recommend that fans take advantage of this additional time. Sales are reduced to standing room only, so expect delays in entering the stadium, with some supporters still getting to grips with Flash Seats, in addition to the extra security checks.