This animated gif could strictly be describing the nice run and sliding finish by Mauro Rosales to put the Sounders FC up 1-0 against FC Dallas. It could describe in length how The Trialist how scored his goal in one long sliding, pirouette-like motion and celebrated with his trademark "arms wide" motions. But really, that was only the secondary story to this image. This one is all about Steve Zakuani getting his first start since his injury and having an immediate impact. Recieving a ball from Christian Tiffert, Zakuani got Zach Loyd one-v-one on the left side. It seemed like either Lloyd truly forgot how much pace Steve brings to the table or he just didn't believe he could move that quick any longer. In fact, perhaps Steve didn't truly know either -- until that moment. Bursting past Lloyd with that vintage speed, Zakuani fed a perfect ball across the goal to an oncoming MDR who calmly redirected it into the Dallas net.

My favorite part of this gif for me is near the end when Mauro turns around to look for Steve and they exchange a hug. You can see the relief, joy, and excitement in Zakuani's face - the look of "I know I'm back." Perhaps not as emotional as his celebrated return versus Colorado earlier this season, but certainly the most important milestone for his complete recovery and return to date.

via likkitp.wordpress.com