It was always going to be a difficult task for the Rave Green. Taking on the best team in Major League Soccer who was on a four-game win streak. The last time the Sounders earned a point in the regular season with LAFC at home was in April 2021. The Sounder’s lone win at Banc of California Stadium was a 3-1 Western Conference win in 2019
The Sounders went into the match feeling good about their chances after a courageous 2-1 ten-man win over the Colorado Rapids.
For the star-studded LAFC, the plan was to high press the visiting Sounders and force them into a mistake early and often
SOUNDERS COUNTER
Rather than sit back the Sounders pushed forward and found pockets in the LAFC high press which turned the tables and put the pressure on the home side.
The result was a goal in the 14th minute
While it was officially declared an own goal the Sounders forced LAFC into making the critical error.
LAFC EQUALIZES
The Sounder’s dominance did not last long. LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo urged his team to continue pushing up the field and attack the Sounder’s lone two midfielders of Cristian Roldan and Albert Rusnak. The numerical advantage in the midfield eventually wore down the Sounders. LAFC gained a strong foothold in the game and the pressure forced the Sounders into making mistakes.
The Sounder’s inability to clear the line after a recycled corner. Hurt them again.
In the 35th minute. LAFC continued to push men up front with continued pressure. The Sounders defense which had been disciplined and composed simply lost its shape and direction.
SOUNDERS ON BACK FOOT AND STRETCHED
Sensing a heavy-footed opponent LAFC went for broke and pushed everyone but the goalkeeper up front. With heads down, deep breaths and hands on hips the go-ahead goal was imminent for the home side. The go-ahead goal came in the worst way for the Sounders. Minutes before halftime and on the back end of another miscommunication between players when it came to pushing the backline after a clearance.
SECOND HALF STALEMATE
The two sides played to a virtual stalemate in the second half. LAFC pulled back on the high press and did not press as much. The Sounders had more time and space with the ball but honestly speaking never really challenged LAFC goal keeper Maxime Crepeau.
“ We ran out of gas at the end but our defending was tight in the box and we were able to see the game off. ‘
LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo said after the game.
The Sounders have a little time to feel sorry for themselves as they will host FC Dallas on Tuesday in a must-win game. With just 12 games left to the season, each game is now a must-win affair.
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