Seattle Sounders get first win of season

The Seattle Sounders finally get their first win of the 2011 MLS season, defeating the Chicago fire 2-1 on April 9.

The Sounders really needed a win after losing their first two games, and then getting draws in their next two. With the win over the Fire, the Sounders are now tied with the San Jose Earthquakes and Vancouver Whitecaps for the fourth spot in the MLS Western Conference standings.

The Sounders struck first against the Chicago Fire, thanks to a header by O'Brian White 7 minutes into the game. The Fire wasted no time getting a goal of their own, minutes after the Sounders scored their first.

The game would remain tied until the 25th minute of the game, when Sounders mid-fielder Steve Zakuani scored another goal for Seattle. Neither team would score again for the duration of the game.

While the goals scored by Steve Zakuani and O'Brian White played a significant role in the Sounders' victory over the Fire, goalkeeper Kasey Keller did his part for Seattle as well. The aging veteran was tested many times by the Fire, but he refused to concede the equalizing goal.

After the game, Keller talked to reporters.

"I'm just glad I was able to make some saves for the team," Keller said. "The last game was a little frustrating because I was able to make a couple of saves in the first half, and in the second half, they got that goal and we drew 2-2. It was nice to finish it off this week and come up with the saves."

With the win, Seattle fans can once again see the light at the end of the tunnel. What initially looked like a season that was quickly spinning out of control, is now looking very salvageable.

The Seattle Sounders will have their work cut out for them though; their next match will be against the Philadelphia Union, who are currently the No. 1 seed in the MLS' Eastern Conference. The Union have been solid so far this season, winning three out of their four games.

A win over the Union will be a much-needed boost to the Sounders' morale.

David has been a fan of the Seattle Sounders for the past 2 years.

Sources:

Associated Press," O'Brian White scores again, Sounders beat Fire 2-1 "