With the 2018 season in the books, SoundersFC.com is taking a look back at the Top 10 plays of the year. We’ll release the full list one by one with the final play being announced on Dec. 30.
NOTE: These plays were voted on by a multiple SoundersFC.com staffers and compiled on a point system. Check out the full schedule HERE.
July 4 | Stefan Frei denies open-goal chance from Colorado Rapids’ Shkelzen Gashi
In what was the 2018 MLS Save of the Year, Stefan Frei took away a sure goal from the Rapids’ Shkelzen Gashi to preserve a 2-1 Sounders lead and earn Seattle a crucial win on the road. The save was season-altering, sparking a 12-match unbeaten streak that helped the Sounders rise from the depths of the Western Conference and earn a first-round postseason bye.
Frei had a career year, setting personal highs in Saves and Goals Against Average (GAA). He finished first in MLS in Save Percentage, second in GAA and was a finalist for MLS Goalkeeper of the Year.