Seattle Sounders give up late goal draw 3-3 with New England Revolution
The good news is that the Seattle Sounders scored three goals and yes, the bad news is that the Seattle Sounders let in three goals. A quick look at the Sounders last three home games shows a troubling trend. The Sounders have given up seven goals and scored six. Once a fortress, CenturyLink Field has become a safe haven for any weary traveler. In the world of sports, you win championship by being a rude guest and most importantly a rude host. The Sounders last four games shows a road win , two home losses and a tie.
CHANGE TAKING A TOLL
Change has been the one constant for the Rave Green this season. Longtime defensive stalwart Chad Marshall unexpectedly retired due to a chronic knee injury, Will Bruin suffer a season ending injury, the COPA America and Gold Cup Tournament saw a plethora of players shuffle in and out of the lineup due to International call up. Defender/ midfielder Joevin Jones, defender Xavier Arreaga , midfielder/ forwards Danny Leyva Emanuel Cecchini, Luis Silva were added to the first team. Roman Torress was hit with a ten-game suspension for violating the league’s Substance Abuse and behavioral Conduct policy.
The result of the constant change has been a lack of communication and familiarity that is translating to breakdowns on the field. On defense players are allowed time and space with the ball. On Offense the attack has one or two players making penetrating runs and opening up space. Saturday was exhibit A. The Sounders lack of communication on defense and in transition is giving opponents time and space with the ball. Bad things happen when you give your opponent’s time and space with the ball in your defensive half.
ROUGH ROAD TRIP AHEAD
To make matters worse the Sounders next three games are tough away games starting with Real Salt Lake pn Wednesday August 14th, LA Galaxy on Saturday August 17th and Friday August 23rd at Portland. All three teams are in battling for a playoff spot with the season coming to an end.
