The Seattle Sounders host Real Salt Lake on Saturday night at Lumen Field in their final home match of the regular season. From riveting pre and post-match activities to two strong Western Conference sides battling it out for the second time this season, Saturday’s match will be a can’t-miss event.
Here are five reasons to attend:
Fan Appreciation Match
Saturday’s match is dedicated to the Sounders’ loyal fanbase and their underlying support, no matter the scoreline. As a thank you to the club’s passionate fans, there will be numerous exciting activities, including the free carnation-inspired bandanas at the gates, prizes and giveaways during the match, and players handing out carnations post-match. The club will also honor the “Fan of the Year” with the opportunity to lead the crowd in Scarves Up, and there will be video vignettes as part of the game presentation to share the traditions that have been ingrained in the club since 1974.
Leagues Cup banner raising
Prior to kickoff, the Sounders will unveil a new Leagues Cup Championship banner in honor of the club’s historic title on Aug. 31. It is a significant moment for the club, celebrating its completion of the North American trophy cabinet in front of those that supported them in the stands every step of the way. This will mark the Sounders ninth trophy banner from the modern era in the rafters of Lumen Field, alongside the team’s MLS Cup (2x), U.S. Open Cup (4x), Supporters’ Shield, and Concacaf Champions Cup banners.
Last home match of regular season
For the 16th time in 17 MLS seasons, the Sounders have qualified for the MLS Cup Playoffs. Don’t miss the last opportunity to cheer on the Rave Green at Lumen Field in the regular season before the club’s quest for a third MLS Cup title commences. The Sounders have only lost one of their 16 regular season home matches this season, thanks to the unwavering support of the fans in attendance. The team will need that same energy from the crowd on Saturday night as they look to secure three points over RSL.
Maintaining momentum
Following a two-match losing streak against Inter Miami and Austin FC, the Sounders have been able to regroup and get back to a strong run of form with a hard-fought draw vs. the Whitecaps and a win over the Timbers. The expectation is to continue this unbeaten streak and finish out their final two regular season matches on a high note as the team builds toward the postseason.
Flip the script
The last time the Sounders faced Real Salt Lake, they left America First Field with a 2-0 loss on March 1. Saturday will not only be an opportunity to defeat Real Salt Lake on their home turf, but push the Utah side further away from playoff contention; currently sitting in 9th place of the Western Conference, RSL would need to defeat Seattle in order to clinch one of the final two postseason spots.
