Despite Sounders FC’s 2-1 loss against D.C. United Saturday night, the team’s gritty performance in the second half was a foreshadowing to Tuesday’s hard-fought 3-2 win over the Philadelphia Union.
“I think it was just that momentum from the last game that inspired this team to keep going,” said midfielder Obed Vargas. “It really fueled us; we proved it to ourselves and that's the most important thing.”
From the get-go, the Sounders were ready to compete. From Raúl Ruidíaz’s brace with goals in the 13th and 37th minutes, to Vargas’ first-ever MLS career golazo in the 22nd minute, the Sounders’ three goal advantage in the first half confirmed their desire to erase their winless streak and change the trajectory of their season.
“That was a monster performance,” said Head Coach Brian Schmetzer. “Winning in MLS is hard and winning away from home against the Eastern Conference leaders is super hard.”
The Union nearly tied the match in the second half, but it wasn’t enough with the Sounders’ continued energy from the first 45.
“You have to dig deep,” said midfielder Cristian Roldan. “It’s about wanting it more, to give that 10 percent more.”
He added, “It's easy to put your head down after they scored two, so I’m really happy with the way we handled it.”
Leading up to the extended road trip, forward Jordan Morris mentioned the need for the team to play more as a “collective group” in order to get back to the success the squad has displayed in years past.
Tuesday night’s performance showcased just that.
“That group of players is really determined to try and do something with this season,” said Schmetzer.
There is potential for heavy legs and a sluggish demeanor after a quick turnaround between matches, but the perseverance and camaraderie from the Seattle side at Subaru Park demonstrated otherwise.
“It's tough playing essentially two days apart,” said Roldan. “And so, I’m really proud of the boys for putting in a shift.”
It was a much-needed result for the Rave Green, after previously suffering five losses in the first 9 matches.
And now, their hope is to maintain the positive outcome as they look ahead to Sunday’s home match against LA Galaxy (3:45 p.m. PT; Watch FREE on Apple TV | TICKETS).
“We have a talented team,” said Schmetzer. “They're firmly committed to playing well at home, away from home, and against any opponent and I think you're going to see a very tight group of players doing everything they can to get us out of this hole.”
