Earthquakes Last Reserve Match
The San Jose Earthquakes Reserves kicked off their 2011 campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Vancouver Whitecaps FC on March 22 at the Nutrilite Training Facility in San Jose, Calif. After falling behind early, the Quakes showed their grit by battling back in the second half to grab the three points.
The visitors drew first blood in the 8th minute on a stunning 30-yard strike from Bedri Gashi into the upper corner. The Quakes pushed forward in search of an equalizer and began to control things on the field, but weren’t able to draw level until seven minutes into the second half when an Anthony Ampaipitakwong corner kick was deflected in by a Vancouver defender. Matt Luzunaris then snagged the game winner after a nice combination between Simon Dawkins and Ellis McLoughlin down the right wing allowed the forward to beat the visiting keeper from close range.
Sounders FC Last Reserve Match
For the visiting Seattle Sounders FC Reserves, this will be their opening match of the 2011 season, as well as their first-ever Reserve League contest. The league was originally formed in 2005, but disbanded after the 2008 season, just as Seattle Sounders FC were getting ready to kick off their inaugural 2009 campaign. MLS decided to bring back the league for the 2011 season, and Seattle will be looking to make an impression in their initial year in this competition.
Players to Watch For
Matt Luzunaris looks to continue to impress up top for the Earthquakes after tallying the match winner in the Reserves’ season opener. San Jose announced his official signing this past week and the former SK Rapid Wien striker will be trying to show that he deserves minutes with the first squad.
Additionally, depending on whether or not he sees playing time in Saturday night’s first team fixture against Sounders FC, Ellis McLoughlin could be a key player on Sunday. The Seattle native had a trial with his hometown team during the 2010 season, but did not make the squad. After a solid outing against Vancouver last week, he may be back on the Nutrilite Training Facility pitch to try to gain a sense of revenge against the team that left him off the roster.
Finally, Trinidadian Scott Sealy is back training with the team after overcoming a right groin strain that kept him off the roster for the season opener. If the coaches see fit, the midfielder/forward could see his first action of 2011.
