by Todd May, @toddmay10
Starting XI
Ousted 7.0
He was rarely troubled by the Sounders attack, making clearances and collecting crosses when needed.
Beitashour 7.0
Occasional lapses in concentration from the right back, however, got forward well adding to the attack at every opportunity.
Waston 6.5
Solid as always at the back but he picked up a silly yellow card in the first half, letting his feelings be known to the referee.
What more could you ask for from a centre back that just turned 35 the other day. Never troubled in defence and always added a threat from set-pieces, shown by his two intelligent goals. The first a fine swiveling volley, then a deft touch to finish off Techera’s shot.
Harvey 7.5
He played well at left back, pushed forward supporting the attack.
Laba 8.5
Utterly dominant in the middle of the park, broke up play, won tackles, protecting the back line from the threat of Dempsey.
Koffie 8.0
He’s been a perfect complimentary partner for Laba in the midfield even with the emergence of Teibert earlier in the season. Calm and composed on the ball allowing the ‘Caps to look like the home side in this one.
Techera 8.5
He might be little but he’s lightning quick, dangerous in attack and has a wicked left foot that caused problems for the Sounders. His assist on the second goal was a perfect example of how dangerous he can be when he gets a look on goal.
Mezquida 7.5
He showed intelligent touches at the top of the diamond. His chemistry with attacking the four continues to improve every match showing he can still yet be a cheap replacement for Morales while the DP works back to full fitness.
Countered at break-neck speed, penetrating the back-line as his side pushed for goals. He’s definitely growing in maturity with his recent performances.
Rivero 8.5
He might not have scored to most fans dismay, but was a constant nuisance for Marshall and Evans all night. His size and strength utilized to devastating effect, holding the ball up well and looking dangerous with the ball around goal.
Substitutes
He managed 20 minutes more under his belt scoring a glorious free kick in the short cameo. The teams’ confidence levels rise when he is on the pitch and has the ball.
Mattocks 6.5 (79’)
The Jamaican came on late but made smarter decisions with the ball clearly buoyed from his Gold Cup experience.
Teibert N/A (86’)