Practice Notes: Back to work on short rest
Sounders host Orlando on Wednesday, meaning an early start to the week.
TUKWILA, Wash. — A midweek game meant the Seattle Sounders were back at Starfire Monday morning to prepare for a home game versus Orlando City SC on shorter than normal rest. While the fixture congestion will test the Sounders’ depth and fitness, coach Brian Schmetzer wasn’t overly concerned about the short rest, at least as it pertains to the game on Wednesday.
“It’s four days; quick is Wednesday [to] Saturday, this one’s fine,” Schmetzer said.
The Sounders will leave on Thursday to prepare for the game against the Philadelphia Union on Saturday.
As a relative newcomer to the league, Brad Smith is still getting used to the travel in MLS and the differences from Europe generally.
“It’s a lot different from England because of the time difference and you’ve gotta leave a few days before to adjust” Smith said. “It’ll be important for our games at home to get the wins and try and grind out results away and keep clean sheets.”
Much of the talk from Saturday’s game focused on Cristian Roldan’s 25-yard half volley goal, which is once again up for consideration for MLS Goal of the Week. Smith credited Roldan’s all-around play with helping the team secure a result.
“He’s an outstanding player, helping out everywhere.” Smith said. “He’s taking shots, they’re going in but for him he’s an all-around player and a special player for this team.” Not surprisingly, Smith said he’ll be voting for Roldan’s strike for goal of the week. “I think he deserved it last week,” he said with a smile.
On the injury front, there wasn’t much of an update on the three injured Sounders. Midfielder Victor Rodriguez was scheduled to get an MRI today on his injured hamstring that saw him leave Saturday’s game early, according to Schmetzer. Gustav Svensson was out at training today doing work on the side, and appears to be getting close to a return.
“He’s getting better; both he and Chad [Marshall] are getting better,” Schmetzer said. “We’re hoping to get them both on the field very soon.”