Sounders Win in San Jose

Sounders played about as good an opening 25 minutes as I can remember and leave San Jose with another 3 points and a promotion to 4th place in the Western Conference. Fredy Montero's headed goal was enough for the win, but there was a lot to like in this 1-0 win (and good for the mythical 2010 Heritage Cup).

Sanna Nyassi continues on a tear. His runs behind the defense, and excellent crosses into the box were a constant nightmare for SJ defenders. It's a surprise he only ended the game with the one assist. Sanna and Stevie Z on the flanks give us great speed and balance outside.

Ozzie was key as well. His return to fitness is a huge boost for the defense; it's no coincidence that his form and the defensive record move in tandem.

And Blaise Nkufo. Again, he didn't score (though came very close, twice) but he does so much off the ball - his move in the box opened up the soft center for Montero to exploit for the score - and is so good at holding the ball and allowing the attack to evolve, he has changed the landscape of Soundersville.

New DP Alvaro Fernandez got in the game for 15 minutes and certainly looked like an assured and skilled player. I can't wait to see him get more field time.

Also, Nate Sturgis has grown leaps and bounds since early in the season - when he was horrible, and I was all over him. He is moving the ball quickly, he's making intelligent passes, and he does a passable imitation of Ozzie's tiny terrier act.

Good luck in San Salvador boys!