Major League Soccer on Tuesday named Seattle Sounders forward Raúl Ruidíaz and defender Jackson Ragen to the Week 15 Team of the Week following a comprehensive 4-0 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps on Tuesday and a thrilling 1-1 draw against the Supporters' Shield-leading LAFC on Saturday.
Ruidíaz notched a brace on just three shots as he powered the Rave Green past their Cascadian rival Whitecaps. The Peruvian's first goal was a masterclass in movement and composure as he peeled off his defender before guiding a first-time shot into the bottom corner. His second was a classic poacher's finish, ghosting past his marker before latching onto Léo Chú's cross for a goal from point-blank range. Ruidíaz also supplied the pass to Fredy Montero that eventually led to an earned penalty for the opening goal inside the first five minutes. He nearly bagged a hat trick in the 62nd minute when he dribbled around the Whitecaps 'keeper but his ensuing shot was cleared off the line by a recovering defender.
Ragen put in a pair of stellar defensive displays against the Whitecaps and LAFC while filling in for 2021 MLS Defender of the Year finalist Yeimar. Across the two matches, the rookie center back posted eight blocks, seven clearances and won nine aerial duels. Beyond the stats, the Sounders Academy alum supplied several crucial plays, including blocking a goal-bound shot from close range against Vancouver and a last-ditch slide tackle to deny a clear breakaway for LAFC. Ragen, who spent most his youth career as a holding midfielder, also showcased his excellent passing range in both matches, completing 28/40 long-range passes.
You can see the full Team of the Week HERE.
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