SEATTLE — Even with a makeshift backline and Clint Dempsey starting on the bench, the Seattle Sounders probably went to bed following Friday’s game feeling as though they dropped two points rather than won one. The reasons aren’t difficult to suss out.
Putting aside the optics of the reigning MLS Cup champions facing an expansion team in their fourth-ever game at home, the Sounders were simply better equipped to win this one. Atlanta was missing their leading scorer and their next best offensive player was limited to reserve duty. The Sounders have plenty of experience coming out of an international break and Atlanta’s depth had never been tested.