With the 2017 season in the books, SoundersFC.com is taking a look back at the top 10 plays of the year. We’ll release the full list over 10 days with the final play being announced on Dec. 31. First up, we’re recapping the plays that fell just outside the top 10.
The Sounders will kick off 2018 with a Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League series against El Salvador’s Santa Tecla on Feb. 22 before opening the MLS campaign on March 4 against LAFC.
NOTE: These plays were voted on by a multiple SoundersFC.com staffers and compiled on a point system. Check out the full schedule HERE.
Cristian Roldan’s game-winning goal vs. D.C. United | July 19
The Sounders’ 2017 Team MVPCristian Roldan capped the largest comeback in MLS history when his 78th-minute strike sent the Sounders to a 4-3 win over D.C. United at CenturyLink Field. After going down 3-0, Seattle scored four unanswered goals in 27 minutes finished by Roldan’s impressive individual effort.
Joevin Jones’ outside-of-the-boot assist to Brad Evans’ diving header vs. D.C. United | July 19
In the same match as Roldan’s winner, Brad Evans helped Seattle pull within one when he dove to head home a brilliant cross from Joevin Jones. The No. 1 pure assist in our top five assists of the year, Jones’ creativity and Evans’ awareness were integral in pulling out the unprecedented victory.
Will Bruin’s assist to Victor RodrÃguez vs. Houston Dynamo | Nov. 30
In the second leg of the Western Conference Championship, Will Bruin added another spectacular play to what was an astounding season-long performance against his former team. Bruin received the ball from VÃctor RodrÃguez at the top of the 18-yard-box, spun and then deftly sent a through ball back to RodrÃguez, who coolly slotted it home to all but secure the Sounders’ second straight berth in MLS Cup.
Clint Dempsey’s goal at Chicago Fire | May 13
The Sounders fell 4-1 at Toyota Park in May, but Clint Dempsey provided quite the highlight with a strike from distance. He received a pass near the top of the box and sent a left-footed shot into the top far corner.
Stefan Frei’s save on Dominique Badji | July 4
One of Stefan Frei’s top saves of the season, he helped Seattle preserve a victory against the Colorado Rapids when his quick reflexes somehow kept a Dominique Badji header out of the net. After a first headed attempt hit the crossbar, Frei reacted swiftly, springing to his feet to paw away Badji’s effort from point-blank range.
