The Seattle Sounders are rounding into form as the team continues its hot streak at home.
Following the team’s 4-1 victory over St. Louis CITY SC on Saturday night, Seattle’s unbeaten record at Lumen Field moved to 3-0-2, solidifying their intention of making their home turf a fortress once again.
“That was a pretty entertaining match,” said Head Coach Brian Schmetzer. “I said that the other day when we played against Nashville, but I think this game might have passed that.”
The team’s offense was clinical throughout the 90 minutes of matchplay, totaling 29 shots with 20 of them being inside the box. And with Seattle's four goals of the night, the team now has a whopping 14 to show for in their five fixtures at home.
“We had what, almost 30 shots today, incredible combination, should've probably scored a couple more goals,” said goalkeeper Stefan Frei. “Sometimes I think we get labeled as playing a bit stale. [Saturday] was the complete opposite.”
The Sounders kickstarted their strong performance as soon as the first whistle blew. While St. Louis collected the opening goal from a penalty opportunity in the 26th minute, Seattle maintained their composure to pull out four goals for themselves to secure three points at home.
“We did a really good job in terms of harnessing [our] emotions and being proactive and productive about it,” said Frei. “[And] if we build on that and repeat that, then I think we will be a very tough team to play against.”
The team’s self-control also reflected their defensive display. After Obed Vargas put the team in front in the 61st minute, the scoreline remained 2-1 for about 20 minutes before Danny Musovski extended the lead further. But given Seattle’s disciplined demeanor in the backline, additional goals from the Midwest side were non-existent.
“It's a matter of making sure that people don't switch off when you think you have something in the bag,” said Frei. “In soccer, those things can change in a heartbeat so you have to make sure that especially when you’re on the front foot and you’re playing good football, that you're not too comfortable.”
From Frei making his 400th appearance at the club, Tacoma Defiance forward Osaze de Rosario earning his First Team debut, Musovski retrieving his fourth goal in four consecutive matches, to Ryan Kent collecting his first two assists for Seattle, there was plenty to celebrate in Saturday night’s overarching victory over St. Louis.
Schmetzer said it perfectly.
“This was a good night to be a Seattle Sounder.”
