Oregon State, belied by their 2016-17 record, looked the best team that Sounders FC 2 faced this preseason. Despite this, S2 were able to put together their most complete performance of the year. They were not as dominate or dynamic in possession as they were against the University of Portland, but they were, while not perfect, much improved on defense. The CDM pairing in particular was much more effective.
Balance is the key in central midfield
The most improved player from last week was the trialist defensive midfielder who has been wearing the ‘88’ jersey. Last week he was paired with Lorenzo Ramos in midfield and the two of them struggled to offer any cover for the backline.