Sounders beat Kitsap Pumas 2-0, advance in US Open Cup
Jun 15, 2016, 10:02 PM | Updated: 11:13 pm
TUKWILA – Desperate to erase the memories of last year’s U.S. Open Cup disaster, the Sounders hosted Kitsap Pumas of the Premier Development League Wednesday looking to advance to the next round. Assistant coach Brian Schmetzer took charge in place of the suspended Sigi Schmid, and he fielded a mixed lineup of youth and veterans. The Pumas held their own throughout the match, but the Sounders came out on top with a 2-0 win.
The first half started well for the Sounders, with Herculez Gomez and Aaron Kovar producing chances and getting shots on goal, but nothing really came of those opportunities.
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The second half had similar moments, but the Sounders finally broke the deadlock late in the half when Cristian Roldan knocked a goal in to give Seattle the lead. A few more chances came the Sounders’ way as they dominated the half, culminating in an excellent counterattack that resulted in a goal by substitute Joevin Jones.
With the win, Seattle advances to the round of 16.
Man of the match: Roldan impressed in midfield and was rewarded with his goal.
Turning point: The first goal broke what could have easily been a 0-0 deadlock for 90 minutes. Kitsap played well, but the Sounders were just too good.
One reason to worry: Seattle didn’t look its best in this match with some young players failing to impress.
One reason to relax: Once first-team players like Erik Friberg and Jones came into the match, the Sounders started to truly dominate their opposition.
Spenser Davis also covers the Sounders for Sounder at Heart.
