The Sounders are a far superior side to Portland and they'll expect to take three points back to Seattle. But without the killer instinct they've lacked all season long, it's far from a sure thing. This is a big game for the Sounders even without the rivalry being taken into account; Supporters Shield contenders need to beat bottom table teams no matter the venue and with the Galaxy picking up a win on Saturday picking up only a point would make the gap look a far tougher hill to climb. But the rivalry absolutely does enter into it, and a win in Portland would go a long way towards completely erasing any remaining negative feelings over the disappointing result earlier in the season. The Sounders are going to need to find their ability to shut down and dominate inferior opponents at some point if they want to continue their march towards elite status; what better time than against a bitter rival on their own turf?
—
Aaron's Preview at SBN Seattle
Seattle is literally better at every facet of the game. Today they must play like that. The Glass House is no more intimadating than the CCL away games.
