Timbers goalkeeper Perkins swapped for Montreal goalkeeper

By Associated Press Published: Aug 7, 2012 at 11:29 AM PDT Last Updated: Aug 7, 2012 at 7:08 PM PDT
Timbers goalkeeper Perkins swapped for Montreal goalkeeper
DC United forward Josh Wolff. left, watches as his shot goes over the outstretched arm of Portland Timbers goalkeeper Troy Perkins on the way to the goal during the second half of their MLS soccer game in Portland, Ore., Sunday, May, 29, 2011. (AP Photo/Don Ryan)

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — The last-place Portland Timbers have traded starting goalkeeper Troy Perkins to the Montreal Impact in exchange for goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts.

Portland general manager and interim coach Gavin Wilkerson announced the deal Tuesday. He said Perkins has been an important player for the Timbers, but the coaching staff saw the trade as an opportunity to improve the position.

The 31-year-old Perkins has started all 22 games for the Timbers this season, compiling a 1.61 goals-against average for the disappointing club.

Ricketts has started every game for Montreal — an expansion club that has allowed an MLS-high 43 goals.

The 35-year-old native of Jamaica is in his fourth MLS season. He played for the Los Angeles Galaxy before his trade to Montreal, and was an All-Star in 2009 and 2010.