Jordan Morris’ hot streak continues in Sounders’ 1-0 win
Apr 30, 2016, 3:11 PM | Updated: May 1, 2016, 3:26 pm
Jordan Morris will be joined by Sounders teammate Aaron Kovar in the MLS Homegrown Game. (AP)
(AP)
The Sounders returned for the first of two matches in a row at CenturyLink Field on Saturday afternoon, where they chalked up a 1-0 win over the Columbus Crew on Jordan Morris’ late goal.
Seattle’s lineup had a few changes to the starting lineup that few expected: Herculez Gomez and Aaron Kovar started, with injury returners (possibly not at full fitness) Erik Friberg and Nelson Valdez starting on the bench. Recent starter Oalex Anderson also started the match on the bench. Zach Scott came into the lineup, replacing the suspended Brad Evans as captain and central defender. Columbus brought in a pretty strong squad, with in-form striker Kei Kamara and midfielder Federico Higuain both starting.
The first half was exciting from both teams, with plenty of chances and attacking buildup. But the shooting was equally poor from both teams, with a number of players fluffing huge opportunities to keep the score at 0-0 at halftime. Morris and Gomez both had good opportunities, with excellent support from Cristian Roldan and Aaron Kovar. Stefan Frei had a handful of solid saves, including an outstanding one with his feet to deny Federico Higuain.
The second half was a similar affair, though the Sounders controlled the match more than in the first. They came close a few times, but not too much happened of note. Friberg, Valdez, and Anderson came on for Kovar, Dempsey, and Gomez respectively. It was those changes that helped initiate the Sounders’ late goal through Morris, after hard work from Jones and Anderson near the six-yard box.
Man of the match: Gotta be Jordan Morris, who worked hard for 90+ minutes that finally paid off to continue his hot streak.
Turning point: The introductions of Friberg and Anderson, who helped combine for the goal. After Friberg came into the match, the Sounders controlled possession and had far more dangerous chances.
One reason to worry: The Sounders’ finishing as a whole was pretty woeful all match, and should have had a few more goals.
One reason to be relax: Morris is absolutely on fire, and is starting to silence many of his detractors.
