Sounders FC 2 vs. Timbers 2, recap: Some good news for you

S2 hosted a subdued T2 today in sunny Tukwila, doing a good job to make sure the Timbers affiliate stayed down. Seattle had a steady stream of chances in the match but were unable to put one in the back of the net until the 88th minute when Mark O’Ojong received a cross from Darwin Jones, cut back, and sunk his shot. O'ojong's rally was the winner,  ending the match 1-0.

Darwin Jones showed well throughout the game, having three close opportunities go wanting, but staying confident nonetheless. Darwin Jones also had a few successful dribbles, which was good to see from a development standpoint. He was subbed off in extra time, giving Academy player Nick Hinds a few minutes.

T2 didn’t manage to threaten Seattle’s goal, forced out of the area by a compact S2 defense. The Rave Green did allow a few potentially-worrisome counters, but stifled them in the end. This was Charlie Lyon’s first shut out of the season.

Zach Mathers and Andy Craven

Zach Mathers pushed fairly high today, as he has been for much of S2’s play. Head Coach Ezra Hendrickson noted after the game that that’s where he wants Mathers to play, so that Andy Craven and the young Duke product can stay connected in the match as another option to building through Myron Samuel or Darwin Jones on the wings.

The Tolo Cross

Tolo had a great offensive game today. He played high and supported Samuel effectively. He also had a few threatening crosses, including one that passed right through the box, inches away from the goal mouth on one side, and inches away from Andy Craven’s forehead on the other. He didn’t do poorly in defense, but there’s still much work needed.