Seattle Sounders: Top three performers from 4-0 win over Minnesota United
By Daniel Garza
The top three performers from the Seattle Sounder’s 4-0 win over Minnesota United.
A flurry of goals in the second half paved the way for the Seattle Sounders to record an emphatic 4-0 victory over the visiting Minnesota United. After a scoreless first half, the home side went on to score four goals in the second half to record their first victory of the 2021 campaign. It was a strong showing from the defending Western Conference champions who were without their playmaker Nicolas Lodeiro. Here are the top three performers from the Sounder’s win.
Raul Ruidiaz
After failing to convert a first half penalty kick attempt, Ruidiaz had a fantastic performance in the second half. He bounced back from the missed spot-kick to record two goals and was instrumental in the victory. The striker finished with seven shots, five of which were on target.
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Ruidiaz has produced double-digit goal-scoring numbers in each of his three seasons in the league and he appears he’s headed towards another after this display. This likely won’t be the last time this season he produces a multi-goal match for the Sounders. The striker is capable of competing for the Golden Boot this season and he is off to a great start in the race to become the top goal scorer in Major League Soccer.
Joao Paulo
Joao Paulo scored what should be one of the top goals of the entire 2021 MLS regular season. His incredible strike opened the scoring in the match and started the Sounders goal spree that followed. In addition to his goal, Joao Paulo finished with three key passes and three tackles. Overall, it was a great first match of the season for the midfielder.
Cristian Roldan
Roldan got the job done both offensively and defensively. He had a key goal-line clearance in the 50th minute which prevented Minnesota from tying the match shortly after Joao Paulo’s opening goal. If he didn’t make that goal-line clearance the match could have taken a different turn as Minnesota would have leveled the scoreline with just under 40 minutes to play.
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Offensively, Roldan went on to record an assist in the 73rd minute as he set up Ruidiaz for his second goal of the night. He would also finish with three key passes and found his target on three of his four long ball pass attempts. All-in-all, there’s no doubt Roldan played a key role in helping the Sounders record an emphatic victory.