Seattle Sounders vs L.A. Galaxy: Seattle Drops Season Opener

The Sounders dropped their season opener to the Galaxy on Tuesday night, 1-0.

In many cases, this was a tale of two halves. The Sounders created many opportunities in the first half. Unfortunately, we all watched as the Sounders were unable to finish on those many opportunities.

All was looking well going in 0-0 at halftime in rain-drenched Qwest Field. The Galaxy came out looking different in the second half, as did the Sounders.

Juninho took a pass from Todd Dunivant at 35 yards. The Sounders defense failed to close in on Juninho, and he took a blazing shot past Kasey Keller to give the Galaxy all they needed to win the match. The Sounders continued to look flat in the second half. Long passes to nowhere and poor play throughout gave the fans no hope of a comeback.

One of the bright spots so far has been the play of Osvaldo Alonso. He is looking better than last year, if that's even possible. The defense continues to look weak, with Leo Gonzalez starting the season with a yellow card, which surprises no one. Jeff Parke and Jhon Kennedy Hurtado seem to always be a step behind. James Riley is carrying the defense when he can.

Sounders fans saw the regular-season Seattle initiation of Erik Friberg, O’Brian White and Lamar Neagle. Friberg and White both had good shots on goal, both narrowly missing the target.

On a side note, Blaise Nkufo is no longer with the team. Apparently a disagreement over playing style has lead to yet another DP leaving the Sounders fold. Regardless of the reason for his departure, the Sounders were 8-1-2 with him in the starting lineup. He will be missed.

The Sounders take on the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena on Saturday at 4:30 PT.