Match 4: vs. Kansas City Wizards

Posted by Mike on April 9, 2009 · Filed Under Kansas City Wizards, Pre-Match 

Sounders FC have gotten off to a hot start as they and Chivas USA are the only ones currently sporting a 3-0-0 record. Seattle doing so without having allowed a goal yet in 270 minutes played.

This week, Seattle hosts Kansas City (1-0-2, 3 points) to a sold out Qwest Field.

The Wizards bounced back from a Week 2 defeat and blanked the Earthquakes at home, 2-0, behind goals from Argentinian Claudio Lopez and Aaron Hohlbein. Throw in forward and US National Teamer Josh Wolff, the Wizards have been effective and dangerous on offense. They are averaging 5 shots a game and have netted five goals.

Many have focused on the Sounders’ offense. But with three blank sheets recorded in three outings, one could argue that their success starts from the back.  The CenterBacks Tyrone Marshall and Jhon Kennedy Hurtado have been physical with NY, Salt Lake, and TFC’s forwards. They are simple, but very effective in eliminating most danger in the middle of the field. The Wing Backs James Riley and Zach Scott have provided solid defense and have been practically quiet in their play- as well as their opponents’.

These 4 are able to secure the defense because of two other reasons- Kasey Keller in goal. Besides his keen ability at still making saves, he has been able to use his knowledge and experience in getting the new defensive group to play as a single unit. The other, Defensive Midfielder- Osvaldo Alonso. The former USL Player of the Year has a motor that doesn’t quit and is continuously in the midst of any attack that an opponent has started to create.

In short, the back line for Sounders FC plays a team defense. Sigi Schmid noted, “Defending is an attitude and they have a good attitude with them.”

But defense is a complete team strategy- as all 11 players are obliged to play defense. And that defense has yet to give up a goal.

Seattle has a chance to increase their record shutout streak for an expansion team and could get closer to New York’s shutout streak to start the 2007 season (MLS record 420 minutes).

Seattle Injury Report

  • GK Chris Eylander (right knee PCL sprain) is Out
  • DF Taylor Graham (left sesamoid fracture) is Out
  • MF Peter Vagenas (knee surgery) is Out
  • FW Jarrod Smith (quadriceps strain) is Out
  • MF Freddie Ljungberg (L knee hyperextension) is Probable

Other Previews

Kick off is slated for 730p. Tickets are available on StubHub.com.

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