Portland Timbers defender Liam Ridgewell has said that he is enjoying the "buzz" of taking part in the MLS Cup playoffs after his first full season with the club.

Timbers face Western Conference winners Dallas in the fist leg of the conference final on Sunday night after beating Vancouver Whitecaps 2-0 in the semi-final on November 9.

Victory against the Texans would secure a first ever spot in the MLS Cup final, and Ridgewell admitted that being part of the post-season run is thrilling after spending his whole career in England before the move to the US.

"Coming here I did not know too much about the playoffs," the 31-year-old told reporters. "Obviously I knew the league situation, but I have always heard that playoffs were a big deal in basketball and American Football, as well.

"Missing out last year by a point was a big blow to myself and everybody. This year I think that we kicked off the season knowing that, and having felt that pain we have taken that into the season.

"We have all been looking forward to the playoffs, and we certainly feel the buzz around the city a little bit differently. There is always a big buzz around league games, so the playoffs have something added and special on it, and it is a pleasure to be involved in it. It has been a good run."

Ridgewell joined Timbers in June 2014 upon the expiration of his contract at West Bromwich Albion, although he did return to England for a brief loan spell with Championship side Wigan Athletic in the second half of last season.