Sounder Strategy: the Galaxy are back

Last weekend, the Sounders found a new way to disappoint despite scoring multiple goals in a match for the first time this season. Seattle now looks to a healthy Albert Rusnák for hope. Facing the Western Conference’s most potent attack in the LA Galaxy, the Sounders’ defense will need to improve as well.

The Galaxy certainly know how to entertain, with a dynamic attack that leads the league in goals per match - and a very leaky defense. Let’s look at what happened in San Jose, and how the Sounders could pull off a shocking win in Carson, Calif.

Sussing out Seattle

Despite shuffling personnel, the Sounders continued to play in their typical 4-4-2 defensive shape with a 3-2-5 shape in possession. Cristian Roldan filled in for the injured Léo Chú on the left with Dylan Teves in Roldan’s place on the right. Cristian did not look very comfortable on the left wing, but the Sounders do not have a clear solution for that spot without a healthy left-footed winger or attacking left back.

Without both Obed Vargas and Josh Atencio, the team turned to the Sounders’ other pair of young central midfielders. Danny Leyva showed his ability to hit a pinpoint pass, but also some dangerous decision-making. In this sequence, Leyva is blind to the pressure from Alfredo Morales creeping up to intercept his pass to Alex Roldan, forcing Yeimar to bail out his teammate with a strong challenge: