Ljungberg evades Portland defenders.
Jane Gershovich / NSS
Seattle Sounders FC were defeated by the Portland Timbers by a score of 1-0 in the inaugural Community Shield match at Qwest Field. Portland nabbed the only goal of the game thanks to Timbers forward Gabriel Obatoli in the 44th minute.
Portland were able to convert one of only a handful of chances in the first half after Seattle dictated play in front of a home crowd of 18,606. The Sounders outshot the Timbers 15-6 but were unable to break past Portland's defense, backed by goalkeeper Steve Cronin.
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The Sounders' first clear opportunity came in the 15th minute, when Brad Evans crossed from the right side to Steve Zakuani on the left post. The winger was left with the goal gaping but was unable to put his shot on target.
Seattle forward Kevin Souter debuted for the club after the Kansas City Wizards released him earlier this preseason.
There was clear frustration as Seattle's attacks were unable to culminate in a final pass with a chance at goal.
Sounders FC will travel to Commerce City, Col. to face the Colorado Rapids next week in their final preseason match of 2010.
Lineups:
Seattle Sounders FC: Kasey Keller, Brad Evans, Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, Tyrone Marshall, Leo Gonzalez, Kevin Souter, Osvaldo Alonso, Peter Vagenas, Steve Zakuani, Fredy Montero and Freddie Ljungberg.
Portland Timbers: Steve Cronin, Quavas Kirk, Mamadou Danso, Ross Smith, Ian Joy, Stephen Keel, Ryan Pore, Rodrigo Lopez, James Marcelin, George Josten, Gabriel Obatoli.
Reach Jesse Amorratanasuchad at nextseasonsports@gmail.com
