Seattle Sounders Go to Houston Aiming to Make History
By Paul Taylor
The Seattle Sounders couldn’t ask for a more difficult start to their title defense, as they look to win their first ever road game against Houston Dynamo.
The moment the Seattle Sounders and their fans have been waiting for is finally here – the start of the 2017 MLS season. For the first time in franchise history, the Raven Green enter a new campaign as defending MLS champions.
Sounders’ head coach Brian Schmetzer has promised the team won’t rest on their laurels, even though they finally reached the peak last year. However, you still couldn’t have asked for a more difficult start to this season.
That’s because the Sounders’ first game sees them heading to Houston, to take on the Dynamo. In eight previous visits — including one playoff game — the Rave Green have never won.
Overall, the Sounders’ record in Houston is 0-4-4. They have conceded 13 goals, while scoring just seven times themselves.
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However, there are several silver linings, as Schmetzer’s men prepare for the game at BBVA Compass Stadium. This first is that even though they’ve never won in Houston, they have managed to pick up points in their last three trips.
The second is that the Sounders will enter the game high on confidence, after their improbably run to MLS glory. Time and time again they showed their mental fortitude last season (after Schmetzer took over) and their belief is at an all time high.
The final reason for optimism going into Saturday’s game purely comes down to the roster itself. This is a team brimming with talent.
Nicolas Lodeiro will look to continue weaving his magic over an entire season, while Jordan Morris is primed to take his game to the next level. Also, as reported by Ryan Krasnoo of SoundersFC.com, the Sounders will likely be boosted by Clint Dempsey taking his place in the starting lineup.
Osvaldo Alonso is healthy and ready to continue where he left off last season, ably supported by Cristian Roldan, who now has another year of invaluable experience under his belt. The addition of Harry Shipp and Will Bruin only further strengthens the depth in midfield and attack.
If there are any question marks surrounding this team, it will come at the back. Zach Scott has retired, Tyrone Mears moved on and Brad Evans will miss at least five weeks, due to a calf muscle strain.
Stefan Frei is expected to start in goal, but he was listed on this week’s injury report with his ongoing ankle issue. There is also the question of if Roman Torres can stay healthy, having only started 12 of a possible 44 games since coming to Seattle.
Overall though, there are more positives than negatives heading into Saturday’s season opener. While not being in the habit of making predictions, it will be disappointing if the Sounders don’t leave Houston with at least one point.
Next: 5 Questions for the 2017 Season
What are you expecting from the Sounders in their first game against the Dynamo? What do you think the final outcome will be, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments section.