Sounders v Impact MLS Match 1 - Gamethread

Seattle Sounders FC embarks on chapter five, book three now. The prologue is over. At 7:30 PM the Montreal Impact face Sounders FC in front of 40,000 or so of the faithful. Match day one starts without two of last year's Designated Players, a defensive stalwart and some of the depth players of year's past. Many of the replacement are not quite ready yet. This verse will be decided on the depth of a team that continues to target the elusive MLS Cup.

With the central midfield lacking Alonso it will be imperative for Rose and Evans to help each other out defensively. Both said during training that they want to get forward a bit more, notch a few more assists. They can't do that at the same time. With the weakened backline there will be a temptation to just dump the ball and pray something happens, instead take advantage of the speed on the pitch and use Route One to create attacks, not just loosen pressure.

Montreal is old. This can be a weakness to exploit. Yes, this match should be their freshest of legs, but they are still old for athlete legs. Use the young speedy subs to apply high pressure and force an error. Their shape is a bit more spread out and they will play more one-two passes. On the turnovers, rush forward. Use the speed of Zakuani, Johnson and Yedlin to grab an advantage.

Tactical Keys

• Rose and Evans controlling the center
• Play more throughballs
• Use Direct Play as an attack not dump and pray
• High pressure late to tire the older legs of Montreal

Player Matchups

• Justin Mapp v DeAndre Yedlin
• Eddie Johnson v Alessandro Nesta
• Steve Zakuani v Hassoun Camara

How We're Watching
Scarf: Nos Audietis 2012
Kit: 30 year anniversary hoodie
Where I'm Watching: Sec: 214 Rows B,C

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