The Seattle Sounders struck early against the Portland Timbers, with Cristian Roldan finding himself at the right place at the right time, being bear-hugged by the right person, to direct a ball past Jake Gleeson and into the Timbers’ net. Holding on for the win was a team defensive effort, and further improves the Sounders 2017 home record to a less-dismal situation.
Brian Schmetzer was able to play the same lineup for two games, which surely felt like Christmas coming early, including Brad Evans’ second start at right back without aggravating an injury.