Sounders at New York City FC, recap: Blues take 2-1 win in heavy rain

Soccer is a poor sport to play in heavy rain. Doing so on a field designed for games to be cancelled rather than play through adverse conditions meant a poor viewing experience and an ugly match marred by sploops, plops and splashes rather than exquisite goals. David Villa’s second goal in his brace was a moment of brilliance and earned New York City FC a come-from-behind victory. It was the first time that the Seattle Sounders lost after leading by a goal or leading at half.

The 2-1 loss is the Sounders fourth straight road loss but this one happened in a completely different fashion than the previous multi-goal away losses. The weather, however, prevents any reasonable analysis.

David Villa scored his first goal after taking a dive into the water. Oniel Fisher poked the ball away while making little to no contact with Villa. A penalty was called; Villa finished as he does. It was his 50th goal with the Blues. His second goal came in the 77th minute as he volleyed in a cross from a tight angle.

It was wet. We cannot emphasize that enough.

Really wet.

Seattle scored first when Cristian Roldan opened himself up with a great touch in the 40th minute. That gave him enough space to run on goal. Rather than pass off to Clint Dempsey, the midfielder took his shot.

That 40th minute goal was one of the few effective moments in run-of-play situations for both teams. Using late subs, Brian Schmetzer tried to level the game but the plan was too little, too late.

Seattle returns home tonight as they prepare to host Orlando City SC Wednesday evening. The Sounders may be dry by the time their plane lands.