This weekend’s meeting between Seattle Sounders FC and Toronto FC signified the mid-way point in the Sounders season. It was a back and forth match up at BMO field in Toronto. It looked as if the boys from Seattle would return to the states salvaging a road point from a scoreless draw and then something happened that was 566 minutes in the making. Montero magic!
The Sounders opened the match controlling possession, and knocking the ball around nicely. The defense looked comfortable (for the most part), and early chances were created up front. Mike Fucito grazed the right post in the 2nd minute with a trademark run off a throw in from Lamar Neagle. Mauro Rosales dominated possession and linked up creatively all over the right flank. Osvaldo Alonso, well, was Alonso. The Sounders were proving early that they would dominate TFC whether home or road.
Then something unusual happened in the 49th minute. The man in charge, Yader Reyes, issued a second caution to Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, Seattle’s all-star center back. El Presidente was sent off, and the road warriors were down a man and playing with 10 for the next forty minutes.
The Reds were determined to make it tough at home. Aron Winter’s club was out to prove a point and avenge a 3 nil defeat from the first leg in April. The home team battled on defense, and sent balls long to link up their forwards and create chances on the attack. In fact, more than once, they were in on Keller and I was up out of my seat. The run of play was open and lively. The makings of a draw were in place. Points were set to split.
Time ticked off the clock, and both sides pushed to grab one for glory. In the 81st minute Toronto substitute Javier Martina rocked the right post and Joao Plata’s rebound attemp sailed over the bar. The home team could taste it. The Sounders stayed composed, controlled the final few minutes of the match, and then it happened.
The 88th minute saw Erik Friberg and El Flaco link up in the area, but unable to create a shot. The 89th minute started with the Sounders in possession, and pressing. Doneil Henry brought down Mauro Rosales about 25 yards out. A direct free kick was awarded. Fredy Montero propped the ball up on the pitch and awaited the whistle. Goleador composed a bender around the right side of the home wall. Stefan Frei touched it with his left hand, but had no chance. Goalazo Seattle! Fredy grabbed us a late 3 points!
Like Tom Petty says, “The waiting is the hardest part.”
I agree Mr. Petty, and it’s always worth the hardest part when it grabs your club 3 points and a road victory. Thank you Fredy for making us wait…no longer!
(image courtesy of soundersfc.com)
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