On Saturday night the Sounders dominated Toronto, earning a HUGE 3-0 victory.
Yes, it was just one win. Yeah, it was only three points, and I know, it was against one of the worst teams in the MLS, but the Sounders needed this win for more than one reason.
To Continue...The week started grim for Sounders nation, and the news just kept getting worse. First, it was the vicious tackle to Steve Zakuani that likely ended his season. Then it was the news that forward O’brian White had a blood clot in his leg that would require surgery. The timetable for his return is not yet known, but all signs point to it being a lengthy absence.
It seemed as if things were spiraling out of control fast. New addition Mauro Rosales, who has played a huge role in creating scoring chances, was battling a hamstring injury that kept him out of the match.
Nothing was going right for Seattle. After all that had happened during the week, playing without key pieces in the lineup and with emotions running high, the question was, how would the Sounders respond?
Answer: In a BIG way
The match got off to a great start and from the kickoff it was easy to tell the Sounders were inspired. Whether it was the three points at stake, playing in front of the home crowd or playing for Steve, this lineup took to the field determined. Desperate to put a positive note on an already depressing week, and they did just that.
As the clock read 11:00, Sounders fans paid tribute to Steve Zakuani by holding up number 11 cards and chanting his name. The gesture made for an emotional moment. Although Zakuani was not in attendance, he did see the tribute and responded on his twitter account.
“Experienced the most emotional 1 min of my life today.. blew me away, “ Zakuani said.
The win won’t heal the wounds caused from the injury to Steve Zakuani or O’brian White. Nor will it bring them back to the pitch any faster. In the end it’s just three points in a long MLS season. However, it feels like so much more.
It was a rough week. The Sounders players, organization, and fans all deserved this one. Enjoy it.
Reach Ryan Kinney at rkinney20@gmail.com
