Credit Sounders FC
By Alonso Contreras
Seattle Sounders still undefeated and it is the only team in the Western Conference that has not lost yet. They went to Portland to play their first biggest rivalry of the 2021 season and came back home with the three points and number one position in the Major League Soccer.
Coach Brian Schmetzer loyal to his 3-5-2 formation this season, achieved the 2-1 victory over Portland Timbers at Providence Park.
Timbers’ captain Diego Valeri had the chance to open the score from the penalty kick but goalkeeper Stefan Frei saved the first attempt, since defender Nouhou stepped in the box before Valeri connected with the ball, the VAR decided to repeat the penalty kick. This time Valeri sent the ball to the post and put it inside the net after the ball bounced back to him, but since the ball hit the post and Valeri kicked the rebound, it was considered as an offside.
Raul Ruidiaz scored his fifth goal of the season from the penalty kick and his eighth goal against Portland Timbers in all competitions.
Sounder’s defense looked solid, Shane O’Neill opening the field, Yeimar Gomez closing the gaps at the right moments, and Nouhou using his speed to control Yimmy Chara.
From there, the Sounders were looking for the second goal and were able to create some chances. Fredy Montero who subbed in for Will Bruin scored the second goal assisted by Joao Paulo from a free-kick, the Brazilian sent a precise ball to Montero’s head.
Sounders’ coach sent defender Xavier Arreaga and midfielder Danny Leyva into the field subbing Brad Smith and Joao Paulo respectively. Timbers started to be more aggressive looking to draw the match in the last ten minutes of the game. At the ninety-fourth minute Tuiloma executed a beautiful shot curving the ball perfectly and scoring the only goal for the home team. Sounders won their first Cascadia match of the year, Seattle will continue on the road when they face this Wednesday against San Jose Earthquake, who are in second place in the Western Conference.
Quotes
Fredy Montero “It is always a great feeling to play for a team that it is always looking to win.”
Coach Brian Schmetzer” We had Dempsey, we had Montero and now we have Raul, we have guys that are Portland killers.”