The Seattle Sounders are hosting the New England Revolution at Lumen Field on Saturday in the final fixture of a three-match home stand (7:30 p.m. PT; MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, 93.3 KJR FM, El Rey 1360AM | TICKETS). Here are five reasons to attend:
Climbing the Table
After a slow start to the season, the Sounders are steadily rising up the Western Conference standings. The team has gone 6-2-3 in their last 11 matches across all competitions, including three consecutive wins at Lumen Field. Currently occupying the final playoff spot in the conference, Seattle could rise all the way up to 4th in the West with a win on Saturday over New England.
Sounders Never Quit
The key to Seattle’s resurgence and ascent in the table has been their hallmark never-say-die mentality. The Sounders overturned a two-goal deficit in the second half against Houston to rescue a point on the road. Down 2-0 against FC Dallas, they scored three goals in the final 15 minutes to secure the win. It was a similar story at home against the Chicago Fire as Albert Rusnák’s brace in the second half, including the game winner in stoppage time, erased the visitor’s 1-0 lead at the halftime break.
Stars Surging
Several important players have elevated their performances during the Sounders’ stretch of improved results. Jordan Morris enters Saturday’s match with six goals in his last eight starts, while Rusnák has pitched in three goals and five assists in his last seven outings. Add in João Paulo’s dominant displays in midfield and Obed Vargas’ continued ascent as one of the most exciting young players in the league, and the Sounders have found a winning recipe.
Seattle Summers
Saturday is shaping up to be a beautiful Pacific Northwest summer day. With weather forecasted to be in the 70’s and low 80’s, it will be the perfect setting to watch soccer on the water’s edge. You can find more information on pre-match activities HERE.
Pedro de la Vega’s Return
Following a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury, Sounders FC’s newest Designated Player Pedro de la Vega made his return to the field against Chicago. Entering the match as a second half substitute, the young Argentine showed flashes of his electric dribbling and exciting attacking play. The addition of de la Vega injects additional quality to an attacking group that is finally starting to fire.