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Sounders Seek Consistency, Take on Struggling Sporting KC
Two teams situated under the red line in the MLS Western Conference standings will aim to improve their luck when the Seattle Sounders visit Kansas City, Kansas, to take on Sporting Kansas City on Saturday evening.
Current Standings and Form
Seattle, positioned in 10th place with 18 points and a 4-6-6 record, is striving for a playoff spot as the season reaches its midpoint. The Sounders have faced challenges in staying consistent, holding a record of 3 wins, 3 draws, and 4 losses in their last 10 games, without consecutive wins in the ongoing season.
Sporting Kansas City is facing even greater challenges with a dismal record of 2 victories, 9 defeats, 5 draws, and a total of 11 points. They have lost in seven straight MLS games and have not emerged victorious in their past 10 matches, with a record of 0-8-2. Securing only one win in eight matches at Children’s Mercy Park during the regular season has resulted in them being ranked last in the Western Conference standings. A successful run of wins is essential for their progress in the rankings, and they are optimistic that Saturday’s match will initiate their comeback.
Sporting KC’s Perspective
Despite the team’s recent struggles, Sporting KC manager Peter Vermes remains hopeful. “This game is going to tell,” Vermes said. “Our training has been good the past few days.”
The rivalry between Seattle and Sporting KC has intensified over the years, and Vermes expects another challenging match. “Seattle has always had a good team,” he noted. “They have a very good nucleus. I think they’re finding their form from early on in the season. They’re an explosive team when they want to be, and they defend very well. So it will be a tough game.”
Seattle’s Recent Performance
Seattle seemed close to achieving their first consecutive wins of the season in their latest match against Real Salt Lake. The Sounders were winning 1-0 in the closing minutes of stoppage time, but Andres Gomez equalized the match by scoring in the ninth minute of stoppage time.
“They obviously were throwing everything at us in the last 10 minutes,” Sounders coach Brian Schmetzer said. “How do you break that momentum? By extending one or two possessions in those last 10 minutes. Instead of just clearing the ball, maybe you find that pass. Your legs are tired, but maybe open up so your teammate can pass you the ball. There are some little things that didn’t manifest themselves.”
Key Players and Injuries
In Seattle, Raul Ruidiaz is the top goal scorer with seven goals, but he has not found the back of the net in the last three games. The Sounders’ ability to achieve the consistency they desire will depend greatly on his performance.
Sporting KC’s Erik Thommy, the top goal scorer for his team with four goals, is marked as uncertain for the game because of a hamstring injury. His possible nonattendance could greatly impact Sporting KC’s offensive choices.
Both Seattle Sounders and Sporting Kansas City are aiming to enhance their positions and performance, making Saturday’s game a crucial showdown. The outcome could establish the mood for the rest of their MLS seasons and give the push necessary for a successful ending. Soccer enthusiasts will be anxiously awaiting to observe which team can overcome their current challenges and strive towards the playoffs.
