Battle in Seattle

The first game of the MLS Playoffs 2013 has ended with the expected victory of the much-hyped Seattle Sounders FC of the visiting Colorado Rapids FC. It would have been quite the upset, had the Rapids defeated the Sounders on their home pitch in front of their excited, and somewhat weary fans. It was not to be a night of upsets.

As expected, there was much anticipation about the match, especially being the first of this year’s playoffs. The MLS Cup run has been a difficult aspect of Seattle’s MLS history in spite of all other successes, on the pitch, in the front office, and especially in the stands. For all intents and purposes the Sounders had a shaky season, but they continued to make headlines with their fans and most notably with the signing of superstar Clint Dempsey. The US men’s national team and Tottenham Hotspur striker returned to MLS making history in the process, but that story is well known at this point. The MLS Playoffs leading to MLS Cup still puzzle football fans across the world, but in English-speaking North America they seem to energize us. The Colorado Rapids have an MLS Cup in their cupboard from 2010, and they have done well this year also.

The match began with plenty of spark from both teams as is typical these days throughout the world. Both teams made every effort to score early. The first 10 minutes went by and the teams settled in, and both kept an upbeat tempo, however, Seattle seemed to make many more connections in the attacking third. The first goal came from Brad Evans with a superb strike that sent the Sounders fans into jubilation. Rightly so! They really attacked the Colorado net constantly. The Rapids were not deterred and they continued to play with great energy, inspired in no small measure by Colorado coach Oscar Pareja. The second half is always expected to bring about a change of sorts, particularly for the team that’s down a goal facing elimination. Indeed, in the second half we saw more energy and strategic thoughtfulness from the Rapids. There was also a noticeable difference in the drive of the Sounders, especially after the 1-hour mark. This was to be expected as Seattle Coach Sigi Schmidt was clearly already planning for the next match against Portland, whose coach Caleb Porter was already well into his pages of notes sitting comfortably a few rows up from the legendary Seattle coach.

The match was nearing the end as both teams played with lots of heart; Colorado fighting for their first goal and Seattle managing the game toward the final whistle. The whole match was very entertaining with lots of great plays and many attempts at goal from Seattle. The pitch is populated by 22 footballers with great passion for this sport, their respective teams and cities. At times it was a little rough but referee Silviu Petrescu deserves great accolades for managing these two teams superbly. With less then 10 minutes left, the unthinkable happened. A quick attack by Colorado and Seattle goalkeeper Michael Gspurning catches the ball just a couple of feet outside the area. Naturally, Petrescu showed him the red card. The entire Seattle fanbase skipped a heartbeat collectively at that point. Backup keeper Marcus Hahnemann, the 41-year old Seattle native comes in and does well for the final 10 minutes or so. This was a dream come true for this incredible goalkeeper who still plays top-flight football at his age. He is an inspiration. But, of course, 10 minutes is plenty of time to score two goals with the attacking prowess of Colorado in the likes of Gabriel Torres and the experienced Edson Buddle. Dershorn Brown was kept away from the Seattle net most of the night, but now the Rapids were one man stronger. Not only did Seattle keep the Colorado attacks at bay but also Eddie Johnson scored an insurance goal, which sent the fans into a frenzy. This was a great finish for the Seattle team and fans. Clint Dempsey, Leonardo Gonzalez, and Osvaldo Alonso had a superb showing throughout the match. Dempsey in particular was able to deliver more than 20 excellent passes. His greatest contribution, in this writer’s opinion, is his ability to move without the ball. This type of cerebral playing strategy freed up players like Neagle and Johnson to attack more easily. The first goal scored by Brad Evans was, in fact, a direct result of the Deuce pulling two Colorado defenders with him which gave Evans all the time in the world to place that shot exactly where he wanted it, beautifully stretching the net. The entire Seattle team played well. Colorado also played very well, and hopefully they take satisfaction and pride in that as they retreat into the Rockies. The next season is just around the corner and they have much to look forward to next year as well.

The 2013 MLS Cup run has begun with a bang and we have more to come. Seattle are already preparing for Saturday’s match against their Cascadian neighbors to the south. Houston will play host to Montreal and this also promises to be a fantastic match between teams with great attackers. Predictions will fly in all directions, and hearts will either soar or be crushed but all will enjoy every moment of our beautiful game.