On Sunday night, the Sounders fell just short of pulling off a miracle. Though for a while there, it looked like they might actually do it.
They had a two goal lead with more than 30 minutes left to play. Then, after a somewhat questionable penalty call, Robbie Keane dashed any rekindled hopes when he converted the PK in the 68th minute, giving the Galaxy a 4-2 lead on aggregate. In the end, the Sounders had dug themselves too big of a hole in that first leg, having lost in LA 3-0.
It’s been a great season, and the Sounders made it further in the playoffs than any previous season. But that MLS Cup Final still eludes them. As someone who grew up a Cleveland sports fan during the 70s and 80s, falling shy of that ultimate league title is a familiar disappointment. (Just Google “Red Right 88,” “The Drive,” “The Fumble,” or “The Shot” and you’ll get my point.) The old phrase “maybe next year” still leaves a bitter taste in my mouth as it was practically my hometown’s motto.
This was my first season shooting Sounders matches and it was an incredible experience. It’s been a fun ride. I couldn’t have asked for anything more. Well, ok, perhaps just one more match.
Maybe next year…
