A 2-2 draw doesn't seem so bad considering it could have been a 5-2 loss if not for the heroics of Sounders' keeper, and Man of the Match, Kasey Keller. The Sounders, down three midfield starters after Alonso's early exit due to injury, played a tough match tonight for the point. It was also nice to see Fredy Montero back in good form.
The first half felt a bit uneventful—neither side seemed to be playing with any creativity or consistency. However, Montero showed great concentration in the 17th minute as he headed in SSFC's first goal from his own rebound off the post. Colorado got level just eight minutes later with a nice run and assist by Omar Cummings to the near post and the finish by a slashing Colin Clark.
Just after the half Conor Casey netted his sixth goal of the season with a hard shot and deflection off Sounders' Peter Vagenas. Not to be outdone, the men in green continued to keep the pressure on Colorado. In the 76th Riley made a nice cross that found the head of Montero, who placed it nicely in front of Jaqua for the GTG. The match ended 2-2 for the Sounders' fourth draw in a row.
The real story of the night has got to be our man in the box. In 1998 Brazilian great Romario said of Keller, "That is the best performance by a goalkeeper I have ever seen" after his 10-save shutout in USA's historic 1-0 victory over Brazil. Well, it's 11 years later and I must say Keller's still got it. If you weren't convinced that he can still play at the highest level before tonight's match, you've got to be now. He denied the Rapids with at least four fantastic saves tonight.
Watch Keller highlights vs Brazil...
What are your thoughts on the match? Glad to see Montero back in good form? Excited for the guys to be back at Qwest next Saturday? I know I am.
By Max
(Tuesday, May 26, 2009 10:28 PM)
Just came across your blog, I like it! Keep it up!
It was a good draw, unlike the one at FC Dallas. Which is good. While we didn't play our best (our depleted midfield having a lot to do with that) we showed resilience and determination. And Keller, yeah...wow. Just wow. He definitely STILL has it.
I was happy with Montero. He did well, especially having involvement in both goals. That's what he is supposed to do. Hopefully him finally scoring again helps him mentally and boosts him to score some more!