SKC and the Sounders share some uncomfortable similarities. Both clubs are in a period of transition with ageing veterans no longer able to sustain their previous success. Both have DP forwards underperforming their contracts. Both had quiet summer transfer windows. SKC’s lone addition was centerback Joaquín Fernández, who has yet to appear due to a groin injury. But while the Sounders have leaned on an elite defense to pull themselves into playoff position and respectability, SKC have remained in the gutter. After an error-filled loss in Kansas City in June, Seattle has the opportunity to punch back against a familiar foe that has been a thorn in their side for several years.
Sounders players and fans were treated to a crazy and cathartic 4-0 drubbing of the league darling Columbus Crew last weekend. Three points from an Eastern Conference road trip during the international break vaulted Seattle back within touching distance of fourth place in the West and home field advantage in the opening round of the playoffs. Meanwhile, SKC’s East coast excursion was another letdown. The Sporks conceded an equalizer in the 89th minute before capping the disappointing draw with a red card in stoppage time. Eight points back of the playoff positions with six games remaining, SKC's goal down the stretch will be to play spoiler. Let’s look closer at both teams’ recent form and how they might match up at Lumen Field.
Sussing out Seattle
The Sounders put the Crew to the sword after their fourth-choice keeper had enough of playing and clotheslined Jordan Morris. From a tactical perspective, the first half was arguably more encouraging as the Sounders generated the better scoring chances while manipulating the Crew’s pressing style to create space.
The Sounders effectively used one touch, vertical passes between the back line and midfielders to tempt Columbus into pressing with numbers, opening space in the midfield for the attack to operate:
