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Seattle Sounders named Players of the Round
5-0 drubbing of Colorado wins the entire team the award
The writing staff of USOpenCup.com has given the Player of the Round award for the quarterfinals to the Seattle Sounders (USL-1) offense as a result of their 5-0 victory over the Colorado Rapids (MLS). Speaking on behalf of the Sounders is their head coach, Brian Schmetzer.
USOpenCup.com: Can you tell me about the mentality of your side in the second half of the quarterfinal, being up three goals and then having a man advantage following Facundo Erpen’s dismissal? Was there a desire to stay on the throttle or did the final two scores come as a result of Colorado trying to get back in the match?
Brian Schmetzer: We (the coaching staff) did not push on the gas after the red card. The players kept going on their own and Colorado did open up because of their effort to score a goal. Players, especially players on a "underdog" team were enjoying the game and did not want it to end, they were having fun, but I do not think in a bad fashion.
USOpenCup.com: Explain your team’s success in this year’s Open Cup compared to previous seasons? Was the draw in a way in your favor with opponents you matched up well against?
Schmetzer: I had no idea about our draw other than the first contest against Banat Arsenal. I could have looked ahead but we wanted to take each game as they came. Beating two MLS sides is very rare and we have been fortunate.
USOpenCup.com: With a deep squad in Seattle, how do you manage getting your players sufficient playing time and handling possible resentment over lack thereof?
Schmetzer: Toughest job for a coach, but we try and treat players better. We try and be honest. And we always deliver what we promise, period. Playing time is never guaranteed, and I make that known before they sign, even the veterans. At the end of the year if player(s) are unhappy we shake hands and part ways.
USOpenCup.com: As your team is mounting a serious charge for the USL-1 title this season, how do you manage the importance of that pursuit against that of winning the Open Cup? Are you chasing both trophies with siginficant fervor?
Schmetzer: Yes, but we chase every game with equal fervor. We tied Minnesota in a league match after the Colorado game and it felt like a loss. I want to beat Dallas in the next Open Cup match and I hope we can survive the league season still in first place.
USOpenCup.com: With a squad that involves former MLS players, guys with European playing experience, and current members of the MISL, how has your team been able to mesh those various elements of play into a cohesive unit?
Schmetzer: A lot of training, and a strong base of players who have been here for years. I always loose a few players for a variety of reasons but team chemistry and cohesion is a product of training with the same players everyday.
USOpenCup.com: Rumors are swirling about MLS bringing an expansion team to Seattle in the near future. What’s your opinion on that, and is it distracting at all for the team and organization?
Schmetzer: The only distraction is in the players' minds after questions from reporters and during their free time. They are a dedicated group with guys who know who they are and where they stand and they can put these things behind them during sessions and games. We are fiercly proud of the season so far and I will champion the results and efforts of this group separately. We know it would be a big announcement and as soccer fans it would be great.
USOpenCup.com: How do you feel your team matches up against Dallas?
Schmetzer: As the underdog!
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