Sounders at FC Dallas - Gamethread

Beating the current version of FC Dallas isn't easy. They have enough quality in all phases of play that on a normal day they are tough when healthy. In near 100 degree heat they gain another advantage. Still, there are opportunities. Dallas is fairly weak defending open play crosses which should bode well for a Sounders team that has a rested and ready Adam Johansson and Mauro Rosales. There should also be some opportunities to use Seattle's creative players for deeper penetration and shots inside the six.

Defensively things are a bit more difficult. David Ferreira is one of the rare forces that can hold his own against Osvaldo Alonso. The 4-1-4-1 that stacks Ferreira over Jacobson can also lead to most shapes emptying defensively against Jacobson. Christian Tiffert's ability to create from that distance and defend well could be vital. Even if it isn't Tiffert, but instead Evans Seattle does have the defenders needed in that space. There's also Blas Perez who has been given American defenders issues for years. He's back and how Jeff Parke matches up with the Panamanian will be a key to keeping the Texas side off the board.

A Seattle win will continue their push for a top seed in the MLS Cup Playoffs and nearly end Dallas' chances for the Play-In Round. It will be hot, both teams need the points. Only one leaves happy.

The broadcast is on KONG and 97.3 FM at 4:00 PM Pacific

Pre Match Build-up: Three Questions | Scouting Report | Tickets for Home Games

Officials

Referee: Sorin Stoica - MLS Career: 6 games; FC/gm: 24.7; Y/gm: 3.7; R: 0; pens: 4
AR1 (bench): Kermit Quisenberry; AR2 (opposite): Jonathan Johnson; 4th: Hilario Grajeda

SUSPENDED NEXT YELLOW CARD: DAL: Daniel Hernandez ... SEA: Eddie Johnson

Team Statistics Matchups

Tactical Keys

• Open Play Crosses
  
• Two-Deep Zone
  
• Use Speed
  
• Hydrate

Player Matchups

• Fredy Montero v Julian De Guzman
• Christian Tiffert v Andrew Jacobson
• Osvaldo Alonso v David Ferreira

How We're Watching
Beverage: Einbecker Maiboch
Scarf: Sounder at Heart
Kit: 30th Anniversary Hoodie
Where I'm Watching: The Berliner

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