While picking up a point on the road is a solid result, the Seattle Sounders remain dissatisfied with the team’s 1-1 outcome of their match against Minnesota United.
“A draw is like a loss, sometimes,” said Head Coach Brian Schmetzer. “There were moments in the first half that were definite improvements, but the second half just didn't manifest itself the same way.”
With only eight matches left, every head-to-head battle is crucial for the Rave Green. Three points looked promising for the team after Yeimar’s header into the back of the net in the 17th minute, but an unfortunate own goal left the Sounders with a tie to close out the match.
Still, the Sounders remain optimistic and hope to carry over some positives into their final stretch of matches.
“At the end of the day, it's a point on the road and maybe at the end of the season it’ll be a difference maker,” said midfielder Albert Rusnák. “This point could be valuable.”
The Rave Green’s defensive efforts were the most encouraging part of their play against the Loons.
“We were doing some hard work defensively,” said Rusnák. “They put us under pressure, but mostly it was shots from outside of the box and further away, and we didn't give up many chances.”
The team’s ability to stay composed in key moments throughout the match in a difficult environment also drew praise from the coaching staff.
“We started off pretty good and I saw things in the first half that I liked,” said Schmetzer. “We had some good moments where we were able to establish possession, extend possession in their half of the field…And you know, apart from the own goal, they stayed strong [on defense].
The Sounders’ 1-1 draw concludes the team’s first of two road matches this week as the team travels to Texas to take on Austin FC (5:30 p.m. PT; Watch on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, 93.3 KJR FM, El Rey 1360AM) this Wednesday, August 30.
The minimal recovery time between matches will be challenging, but with the support from everyone on the squad, the Sounders are looking to close out the road trip with a win.
“Especially this week, I'm sure there'll be more players that will get the chance [to play],” said Rusnák. “A good team is defined when the times are tough, and right now the times are tough. So, for me, the most important thing is that we stick together.”
