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As part of the loan agreement, Burse, 23, can be recalled by Dallas as needed during the 2008 MLS season.

 

“Ray is a young and talented goalkeeper,” said Gavin Wilkinson, head coach and general manager of the Timbers. “With the transfer of Josh (Wicks) to the Galaxy, Ray has the ability to step in and compete for the starting job; it’s nice to have goalkeepers who possess that ability. He shows great potential for growth and development.”

 

Burse first began training with the Timbers on March 27, and played 90 minutes in the club’s first 2008 preseason game against the San Jose Earthquakes of MLS on March 28.

 

A third-round selection by Dallas in the 2006 MLS SuperDraft, Burse made his professional debut on July 24, 2007, in a 1-1 draw with Chivas de Guadaljara (Mexico) during the 2007 Superliga. Burse did not make an appearance with FC Dallas during his rookie season in 2006, but served as the backup for 20 of the club’s 32 regular-season matches.

 

Burse was a three-year starter at Ohio State University, where he compiled a 23-23-5 career record. He finished his time at OSU among the school’s all-time leaders in saves (162), shutouts (13) and career goals-against average (1.11). As a junior in 2004, Burse led the Buckeyes to their only two NCAA tournament wins, a share of the Big Ten regular-season title and was an all-conference selection. Burse was a part of OSU’s senior class in 2005 that recorded 38 career wins; the fourth-most in school history.

 

The acquisition of Burse brings the Timbers roster to 18 players as they prepare for the start of the 2008 USL First Division on April 17 at PGE Park.

 

Burse is expected to re-join the Timbers Tuesday following a trip to Houston where he was a member of FC Dallas’ 18-man roster for their 3-3 draw against the Dynamo over the weekend.

 

Portland begins the 2008 USL First Division season April 17 against the Puerto Rico Islanders at PGE Park. Tickets, starting at $11, are available through the PGE Park box office, area Ticketmaster locations, online at www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at (503) 224-4400.