The Seattle Sounders FC Academy U-18 squad has advanced to the U.S. Soccer Development Academy national semifinals with a dramatic 3-2 extra-time win over in-state rival, Crossfire Premier.
In a back-and-forth affair, the young Sounders took a 2-0 lead into halftime only to see their lead evaporate in the second period. With penalty kicks seeming inevitable, center back Jackson Ragen produced a stunning game-winner to book the Rave Green’s ticket to the Final Four.
Having advanced from an extremely difficult group featuring the likes of FC Dallas and the New York Red Bulls, Seattle flew out of the gates knowing full well a strong start would prove crucial in a heated rivalry match.