There were plenty of reasons to be cheerful for Earthquakes fans at Avaya Stadium on Sunday following the 2-1 victory over Portland TImbers. A win over the champions? Check. Goal of the season contender? Check. Another three points? Check.
But while it might not have hit the global headlines like Quincy Amarikwa’s 35-yard chip of beauty, the return of last season’s Rookie of the Year runner-up Fatai Alashe to the midfield engine room was as worthy of celebration as anything else.
The all-action 22-year-old missed a large chunk of pre-season from injury and took no part in the opening day 1-0 victory over Colorado Rapids.