The Sounders FC showed Thursday evening that they have the ability, and the man power, to grind out a victory in grueling fashion, winning 1-0 against DC United. The Sounders stole three points in their long trip to the capital, as Fredy Montero’s cross in the 89th minute found the head of Roger Levesque, earning Seattle a much deserved win.
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Much of the credit for this victory rests in the sturdy hands of keeper Kasey Keller, who pushed through an ankle injury to collect five saves and keep Seattle in the game until the very end. Keller suffered this injury in the second half while spoiling a potential goal opportunity by the United.
Kasey was tested throughout the match, consistently pulling through in the clutch and keeping the game alive for the Sounders. This was Keller’s fifth shutout of the season, in what had been a difficult one for the 40-year old keeper.
“We needed something to go our way. We’ve played well enough to win games, and we’ve given up late goals for draws, and it just felt good to keep that cleansheet, and to win 1-0,” Keller stated after the game.
Levesque’s goal was his first of the season and was sparked by the substitution of Sanna Nyassi for a rather ineffective Pat Noonan. Nyassi stole the ball and controlled it to midfield, passing to Montero on a run up the right-side, eventually crossing to Levesque on the back post who connected on a diving header resulting in the game-winning goal. It was unclear whether the ball had reached the back of the net, or the side, at first, as Roger simply leant on the sponsor boards and waited for his teammates' congratulatory celebration.
The win moves the Sounders into a tie for sixth place with the Houston Dynamo in MLS’ Western Conference, with 19 points and a record of 5-8-4. Seattle’s next MLS opponent is the Colorado Rapids, who are currently just three points ahead in the standings. This match will take place at Qwest Field on Sunday, July 25th at 7:30 pm.
However, this coming Sunday, July 18th, the Sounder take part in their second friendly-match of the season, as Irish Premiere League’s Celtic comes to Qwest Field. Tickets are still available so get out to the pitch at Qwest Field to enjoy the weather and some friendly international futbol. Go Sounders!
Reach Kyle Fosnes at nextseasonsports@gmail.com
