In MLS the Seattle Sounders have yet to have a game in league play that didn't matter. Only the tail end of last year's CCL is at all similar. During that run the Sounders were able to get valuable playing time for Mike Fucito, Tyson Wahl, Alvaro Fernandez, and Zach Scott - players who weren't keys to the 2010 season, but have become so for MLS 2011. Tonight Sigi Schmid can use this game in ways similar to the Reserve League. He can test some new ideas, some new pairings and look at 2012 a little bit. The result is not vital.
Similarly, the New England Revolution aren't playing for this season. They will be fielding a very different lineup from the last meeting, one that will include their first HGP signing - Diego Fagundez. They are also trying to fine tune the integration of their first DP signing (Milton Caraglio) and American Benny Feilhaber. When neither team is desparate for results the play can become a display of one-on-one skills or down right chippy. That will influence the tactics as much as anything.
Sigi's men must stay healthy. They are trophies to be won, so expect that if core players start they won't finish the game. Secondly, the players that get a run tonight that are on the border (cut/stay or 1st/2nd team) must play the current version of Sounders soccer. They should attack the ball on defense and rapidly transition to offense through many ground level passes. Those who don't get much run with the regulars must show that they can adapt to being in and out of lineups, because even the best get that treatment in Seattle. Lastly, on defense this is not a Shalrie Joseph and 10 other guys team anymore. Do not take the Revs for granted. Even a single point here advances the cause of advancement in the MLS Cup Playoffs.
The game is on KONG 6/16/106 and 97.3FM with Arlo White on the call at 4:30 PM
Pre Match Build-up: Statistics | Three Questions | Scouting Report
Opposing SBN Site is The Bent Musket
Tactical Keys
- Rapid Transitions Through All Layers
- Learn New Pairings And Patterns
- Don't Overfocus On Shalrie Joseph
- Stay Healthy
Player Matchups
- Zach Scott v Milton Caraglio
- Nate Jaqua and/or Sammy Ochoa v A.J. Soares
- Servando Carrasco v Benny Feilhaber
Beverage: Yes
Scarf: Nos Audietis
Kit: #ChurchOfFucito
Where I'm Watching: A Terrible Beauty (Renton)
Nos Audietis In Somniis | Nos Audietis In Altum
You Will Hear Us In Your Sleep | You Will Hear Us From The Deep