Ten-man Sounders snap three game losing streak with win over Rapids
By Charles Hamaker
Seattle, WA – The Sounders were finally able to break through and find the final ball, albeit twice, defeating the Colorado Rapids, 2-1. Seattle was able to apply constant pressure to a Rapids side that has yet to win on the road. A second yellow card given to Kelyn Rowe in the 47th minute put the Sounders at a disadvantage for the majority of the second half. Despite this, the Sounders dominated every offensive category in the match except for corner kicks. Seattle was able to push through, securing three points for the first time since July 2nd. The Sounders now sit at eight in the Western Conference.
Jordan Morris flick equalized the game (Photo by Jane G photo with Seattle Sounders)
Morris finally breaks through, spearheads the Sounders attack
Attacker Jordan Morris is a player that has the ability to ruin opposing teams game plans with his speed and ability to find weak spots. Tonight was no different for the Mercer Island native, as Morris was active all over the pitch and constantly applied pressure. The player of the match was effective from his left-wing spot, putting six shots on goal and finding the back of the net. Morris was able to flick a ball past Colorado keeper William Yarbrough off of a great through ball by Jimmy Medranda, netting his first goal since June 29th. His persistent play also earned Seattle a penalty kick that would give them the go-ahead goal. A healthy and aggressive Morris is a huge key for a Seattle team that is currently trying to fill the gap that Raul Ruidiaz has left in his injured absence.
Early mistake lone blemish on the night for Seattle defense
Very early on in the match, it seemed like Seattle’s backline was again going to perform poorly and allow the Rapids in easily. A week after a loss to Chicago where several attackers essentially walked in with ease, a similar situation arose. A third minute goal by Jonathan Lewis was the result of Yeimar completely losing his man, giving up a goal that should never have happened. Following the early blemish, the Sounders defensive unit was able to lock down Colorado and hold the Rapids to only one big chance. Even down a man, Seattle found ways to aggravate Colorado and keep them away from doing anything dangerous, as the Rapids committed 14 more fouls than the Sounders. Yeimar himself almost made up for his mistake with two goal scoring opportunities within minutes of each other, but miraculous defensive plays robbed him of a goal.
Albert Rusnak’s playmaking ability has been crucial for Seattle (Photo via Seattle Sounders)
Albert Rusnak continues to impact the game in more ways than goals
Midfielder Albert Rusnak has drawn the ire of some Sounders fans because he isn’t a goal scoring machine or perhaps does not make the most obvious of plays. With that being said, Rusnak’s play for Seattle has been critical, as his buildup and underlying statistics are a huge driver in the Seattle attack. A big example of that took place prior to Jordan Morris drawing a penalty late. Rusnak flicked a great through ball to Jordan Morris, hitting him in stride with a great opportunity on goal. If Rusnak does not make that pass or if he is not there, Seattle may end up splitting points with Colorado.
Reflection
Considering the circumstances, this is a good win for Seattle. Down a man, coming off of a three-game goal-less losing streak, the Sounders needed this one. Avoiding the embarrassment of giving Colorado their first road win is great, but considering that you have fallen out of a playoff spot means this was more or less must win. Just five points separates Seattle and third seeded Minnesota United FC, so a win streak or positive form the rest of the month sets you up for a better situation come postseason.
Seattle’s next matchup comes Friday, July 29th against the Western Conference leading LAFC. A tough matchup on the road and with an odd kickoff time (8PM PST), this will be intriguing for Seattle. With the new editions of Gareth Bale and Giorgio Chiellini to an already loaded roster, Seattle is in for perhaps it’s toughest battle of the MLS season.
