Football Season Review

A victorious play off campaign gives Seattle its second MLS Cup, establishing them as major players in the MLS, having now reached 3 finals in the past 4 seasons. A strong start meant Seattle lost only 1 of their first 13 games, but patchy form in the latter half of the season meant they fell well behind conference leaders LAFC, who themselves defeated Seattle 4-1 early in the season. But the Sounders went into post-season with confidence, sweeping aside RSL before a surprise 3-1 win away at conference leaders LA. An MLS Cup final victory over past play-off rivals Toronto capped a spell of unstoppable form. Seattle were efficient finishers and solid defenders. They won games consistently despite losing more than 50% of possession Kim Kee Hee and Gustav Svensson provided a strong defensive core, while Nicolas Lodeiro supported Raul Ruidiaz and Jordan Morris who led the forward line, with 11 and 10 goals respectively. Nouhou and Handwalla Bwana are good prospects for the team going forward, but Seattle know serious improvement across the park will be required to compete with the likes of LA for a Supporters Shield. With Arreaga likely to be stripped of his designated player status, Seattle may have a big signing to push themselves up to the next level.

Player of the Season: Gustav Svensson