It was a lovely evening for the Seattle Sounders Reserves to return to Starfire Stadium. They played a challenging match against the Chivas USA Reserves. The Sounders were hopeful for redemption, after a rough (3-2) loss against the Colorado Rapids Reserves last Monday. Fortunately, the Sounders put up a solid fight and were successful.
From the start of the match through the end of the first half, both teams struggled to control the possession of the ball. After much back and forth between both teams, the Chivas were able to fight off the Sounders’ defense in the 33rd minute of play and Forward #6 Jose Manuel was able to send one past the Sounders’ Keeper. In the 37th minute, Chivas’ Manuel was successful in scoring a goal off of a free kick that flew into the top right corner, just out of the Keeper’s reach. The Sounders were really starting to feel the pressure. Luckily, the Sounders’ offense did an excellent job of picking up the slack. Chivas’ Keeper #24 Patrick McLain was quick on his feet and did an excellent job of tending the goal; however, a break-away by Forward #16 David Estrada in the 43 minute resulted in an outstanding goal by Forward #22 Eriq Zavaleta. The Sounders finished the first half trailing the Chivas, with a score of 2-1.
As they entered the second half, it was apparent that the Sounders had increased their intensity and focus. Immediately, the communication was clearer and the passing game was improved. They were able to regulate the possession of the ball and make smarter plays. In the 61st minute, Sounders Midfielder #23 Servando Carrasco scored off of a penalty kick and was able to tie up the game. The Sounders continued to push hard and play smart. In the 80th minute, Zavaleta was able to score once again and help the Sounders push ahead. The final score was 3-2, Sounders.
The Sounders Reserves will return to Starfire Stadium on August 26tth at 7:00 PM to play the Vancouver Whitecaps.
