It's the glimpses that have Portland Timbers coach Phil Neville clutching onto the possibility of a defensive rectification. Despite having one of the worst statistical defenses in the MLS this season, the Timbers (2-4-4, 10 points) have produced unblemished stretches sustained up to 45 minutes at times. Undeterred on Tuesday as he navigated a thoroughly soaked practice field, Neville came back to the theme with his team, pointing to instances where they've showcased suddenly unified focus along the backline.