The Seattle Sounders vs Toronto FC match will take place this Saturday, March 15, 2014 (1:30 PM Pacific) at the CenturyLink Field in Seattle. With a massive morale boosting victory against last season’s champions, Sporting KC, the Sounders are home once again, this time against Toronto FC. With Clint Dempsey making his home debut against Sporting KC, he should settle into his new home and role in the Sounders midfield. With Chad Barrett scoring the lone goal in this game his enthusiasm is through the roof. Sean Okoli is a brilliant passer with a vast amount of pace to leave defenders in his wake, like he did this past weekend. These three players will combine this weekend to hopefully bring another positive display to CenturyLink Field against a tough Toronto side.
Clint Dempsey came off of the bench against Sporting KC and took control of the game. With the experience, both internationally and in England, Dempsey could be up for player of the year both in Seattle, as well as inside the MLS. With his ability to run past opponents, cross from the wings, or even lead the attacking line, he is truly a triple threat. Even though he may be getting older in ‘soccer’ years, his brain is truly helpful for him and his teammates. Look for Dempsey to grab this game and set the tempo for his side in the opening moments of the game.
Chad Barrett scored the winning goal in the 94th minute against Sporting KC. Even though this goal was not the prettiest of his career, he was in the right place at the right time. Finding open space to fill in is a specialty of Barrett, who has a nose for the net, even if his goals never see a highlight reel. Barrett should get the nod this weekend to play up front for the Sounders against Toronto. With Barrett’s great knack for finding the net, seeing him find the back again this weekend would not come as a surprise at all, especially if he gets service as he did last weekend from Sean Okoli.
Sean Okoli is a born and bread Seattleite growing up just 20 miles south of Seattle. Being from Seattle, Okoli has found his way into the hearts of the Sounders faithful. If he keeps producing as he did against Sporting KC, he could have a long and happy career at CenturyLink Field. At just 21 years of age, Okoli’s better years could be right around the corner. With great mentors like Dempsey, Brad Evens, and Osvaldo Alonso to help this young man, his growth could be on display for all to see. This weekend, watch for Okoli to run down either flank of the pitch centering cross after cross for the likes of Barrett or Dempsey to convert into goals.
Seattle Sounders vs Toronto FC Prediction
With a full wave of momentum inside of the Sounders, keep your eyes open for a highly entertaining game. Look for Dempsey, and the rest of his midfield compatriots, to hold onto the ball seeking that one pass that will open up the defense. Prediction: Sounders 3-1 Toronto FC
Seattle Sounders vs Toronto FC Television
The match will be televised on NBC Sports Network, and MLS Live.
