It was another beautiful and sunny Sunday down at the Starfire Stadium, as the Seattle Sounders Reserves prepared to faceoff against the Colorado Rapids’ Reserves. Fans of all ages began to pile in and fill up the stadium, eager to watch a great match. Following kickoff was an aggressive start on both ends, with high intensity and focus that lasted throughout the match.
The Colorado Rapids offense put some serious pressure on the Sounders defenders from the very start, allowing them to score a tough goal in the 6th minute of play. Fortunately, the Sounders were able to fight back with all they had and did an excellent job of sending some pressure right back at the Rapids defense. After three shots on goal, the Sounders were able to score in the 12th minute with a stellar goal by Forward #22, Eriq Zavaleta. Zavaleta did a great job leading the offense in the first half with numerous of shots on goal. Unfortunately the Sounders were unable to keep this momentum up, as the Rapids fought back and drove down the field, only to score in the 12th minute as well. The Rapids ultimately maintained greater possession of the ball and conquered the passing game in the first half, leading 2-1.
At the Start of the second, Sounders offense came back strong, absolutely dominating the overall possession and really put the pressure on the Rapids defense. Forward #16, David Estrada did an absolutely magnificent job of controlling the offense and putting pressure on the Rapids’ keeper with shot after shot on target and a great assist. In the 72nd minute of play, Estrada broke away down field and assisted in a beautiful goal scored by #4, Patrick Ianni.
Despite their dominant second half, unfortunately the Sounders were unable to come out with a win. The final score of the match was Rapids 3, Sounders 2. Be sure to come out and support your Sounders Reserves as they kickoff on Monday, July 24, at 7 pm against Chivas USA, right here at Starfire Stadium.