Earthquakes Shock Seattle: Shea Salinas Shines

Before a small but dedicated crowd on the first Sunday in August, the Earthquakes hoped to continue their solid play that had granted a draw against Eastern Conference powerhouse, D.C. United.

This day was a bit different. Their opponent—Seattle Sounders FC—was one of the hottest clubs of the 2009 season, surprising the league as their expansion program had placed them in one of the top spots in the East.

Led by international superstars Freddie Ljungberg and Kasey Keller, the Sounders had taken the first two meetings handily, 2-0 and 2-1. This was the first game that San Jose had met them at home. With their faithful crowd on their side, these 'Quakes could not be stopped.

Within the first minute, Cornell Glen forced Seattle keeper Kasey Keller to make a difficult diving save. Seconds later, a good ball from winger Darren Huckerby put through Ryan Johnson down the left wing. His cross was met early by Seattle defender Osvaldo Alonso who deflected Johnson's cross into his own net.

Seattle's chances were few and far between. San Jose continued their deluge of scoring opportunities. The Sounders had one response—getting physical. The game took a nasty turn 30 minutes in as the play got rougher and rougher.

Finally, the consequences hit. A poor challenge from the Sounders' defender James Riley found 'Quake Bobby Convey. The cleats-up tackle earned a direct red card, putting San Jose at a man advantage for the rest of the game.

San Jose seized their chance. With a 11-10 advantage, they were able to pour the pressure on the Sounders. In the 54th minute, continued strong play from center midfielder Ramon Sanchez and right wing Shea Salinas granted San Jose fans a second goal.

The distribution by Sanchez to the right wing set-up an excellent cross from Salinas that helped Cornell Glen find the bottom left corner. It was 2-0.

In the 78th minute, the 'Quakes struck again as a few quick passes from Huckerby and Wondolowski put a dangerous pass near Seattle keeper Kasey Keller. Blocked out by a few of his own defenders, Keller was unable to gather the pass as Huckerby snuck between three Seattle players and tapped the ball in for his third of the season and the San Jose's third of the match.

Shea Salinas continued to shine as he won a 50-50 ball at midfield and exploded into the attacking third. After a beautiful pass to the top of the box, late substitute Chris Wondolowski found the pass and the back of the net, putting the game away at 4-0.

Salinas was given a rare start, but proved himself worthy as the fans voted him Man of the Match. He was able to stay disciplined and did not force too many one-on-ones. He created numerous opportunities for his teammates, gathering two assists.

Salinas rocketed San Jose past a strong opponent in Seattle and continued to step-up his game. The team broke their six-game winless streak and prepared themselves for the opening act of "The Night of Champions" in San Francisco the following week.

It appears that things are looking for this little soccer team from the Bay Area.