SEATTLE – The Seattle Sounders kicked off the 2026 MLS season with an impressive 2-0 victory over the Colorado Rapids. Paul Rothrock shone bright by assisting Albert Rusnák’s goal in the 15th minute and then scoring himself in the 62nd.
The match began with excitement but quickly turned tense. Jordan Morris had to leave the field in the 8th minute due to a thigh injury, which clearly affected him. Rothrock stepped in for Morris on the left wing, determined to boost the team’s morale.
He showed his talent by chasing down a ball from Jesús Ferreira, just keeping it from going out of play. Rothrock then delivered a perfect cross that Rusnák turned into the first goal with a glancing header, sending the ball past the Rapids’ goalkeeper Zack Steffen.
Not long after, Hassani Dotson thought he had scored another goal for Seattle, but a video review reversed the call due to a foul beforehand. Referee Malik Badawi became a key figure, showing Colorado’s Noah Cobb a red card for an elbow to Rothrock’s head, which was later downgraded to a yellow after a review. The many stoppages led to an astonishing 12 minutes of stoppage time, during which Dotson suffered a concussion after a collision.
After halftime, the Sounders came back strong. They quickly pressured the Rapids and scored again through Rothrock, who finished a well-coordinated play. De Rosario set up Ferreira with a pass, and despite a deflection, it reached Rothrock, who launched a powerful shot past Steffen, making it 2-0.
The Sounders had a few more chances but it was goalkeeper Andrew Thomas who had to make key saves in the closing minutes.
Next up, the Sounders will face Real Salt Lake away before returning to Lumen Field in April.
Key Moments:
- 15′ GOAL! Rusnák converts Rothrock’s cross to score.
- 30′ Noah Cobb receives a yellow card after a review.
- 62′ GOAL! Rothrock scores from a deflected pass, bringing excitement back to the pitch.
Shining Through Struggles: Jordan Morris’s injury is a tough blow, but it also created a chance for Rothrock. The Sounders have built a versatile team that includes strong players ready to step up when needed. Rothrock, along with others like Snyder Brunell and Osaze De Rosario, took advantage of this opportunity to showcase their talent.
New Era Begins: Andrew Thomas started in goal, hinting at a transition period for the Sounders. He made crucial saves when necessary, suggesting he could become a reliable choice in the future.
Paulie Primetime: Rothrock seized his moment. His hard work and skill were evident in both goals. He’s determined to hold onto his place on the left wing while Morris recovers.
Brian Schmetzer on Rothrock’s performance: “That goal was a great finish. His hustle keeps him ready and could be his chance to show he belongs.” This adds a layer of depth to Rothrock’s development and aims to excite fans for what’s to come.
Player Spotlight: Jesús Ferreira played a crucial role in both goals. He not only made effective passes but also showcased impressive overall play, helping the Sounders dominate the match with 15 shots compared to the Rapids’ 7.
Overall, this first match highlighted not just the team’s strength but also the resilience of players stepping into new roles, mastering the challenges as they embark on a promising season.
