TUKWILA — A pause and a contorted face are among frequent reactions to questions regarding MLS’ new playoff format.
Since the change was announced in December 2018 from two-game, aggregate-scoring opening rounds where each team got a home game, we’ve been waiting to see the new, single-elimination postseason style.
While the Sounders are excited about an 11th consecutive playoff berth — third straight as a No. 2 seed — there’s the reality that a loss ends the season.
“Uh,” said Sounders assistant coach Gonzalo Pineda, wincing with a head tilt from side to side.