The length and logistics of a trip to Cascadia is never easy on Crew SC or any other Eastern Conference team in Major League Soccer.
Be it Seattle, Portland or Vancouver, the challenges are the same: long flights, artificial turf and exquisitely bearded, delightfully hostile fan bases, well-lubed by artisan beverages. But even the weariest of travelers can enjoy it.
“I think we’re excited for the atmosphere and the opponent,” coach Gregg Berhalter said Thursday before the Crew boarded a plane for Seattle and a game today against the Sounders. “It’s a great test for us. We’re looking forward to it.