Scott vs Eskandarian.
Aaron Weinberg / NSS
Both Chivas USA and Seattle Sounders FC will be close to full strength for this evening's match. Sounders goalkeeper Chris Eylander has been given the nod in goal over Ben Dragavon, after Eylander recovered from a sprained knee.
Here are several match ups to watch for as the Sounders look to stay unbeaten away from home.
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Chris Eylander vs. Zach Thorton
Eylander will start his first game for Sounders FC where his opposite number Thorton will be making his fifth start for Chivas USA. Thorton has been pivotal to Chivas' defense and has made 17 saves this season. Eylander was the Sounders starting 'keeper before they were an MLS team and will back up a defense that has allowed only one goal in four previous games.
Zach Scott vs. Alecko Eskandarian
Scott has played against several different players this season and has consistently been a hard-nosed defender. Eskandarian played his first minutes of the season last weekend for Chivas USA and is a threatening left-footed forward. Although he may start in the midfield, Chivas USA head coach Preki may give Eskandarian, who is a good striker of the ball, the license to go forward.
Brad Evans vs. Jesse Marsch
Evans has started every match for Sounders FC and provides consistent support and composure in central midfield. Marsch plays a similar role for Chivas and will look to help switch play and keep possession in the middle of the park. Marsch and Evans will be important in deciding which club can set the tone and control the pace of play.
Sebastian Le Toux vs. Jonathan Bornstein
Le Toux scored a goal for the USL Division 1 Sounders when they met Chivas USA in the U.S. Open Cup last time these clubs met. Seattle has a number of offensive threats and Le Toux may be a player who is over looked by their opponents. Bornstein, playing the left-back position for Chivas USA, will be responsible for marking Le Toux, who will play on the right side of midfield. Le Toux has played smart on the ball and is working hard to combine with his teammates, which may eventually leave him with a chance in front of goal.
Reach Jesse Amorratanasuchad at nextseasonsports@gmail.com
