CARSON, Calif. – In Seattle, they’re about to throw a party for fans on Friday night in what is expected to be the Sounders’ 31st consecutive sell-out.
That means Chivas USA will have to contend with another crowd of some 36,000 raucous fans in what has become one of the greatest home-field advantages in all of MLS. And the Goats are keenly aware of the daunting challenges that come with playing in the inhospitable conditions of Qwest Field.
“It’s a tough environment to play in,” Chivas USA goalkeeper Zach Thornton told MLSsoccer.com. “The crowd is tough and they’re a good team at home. We need to really stick together out there.”
While Qwest Field and its legions of fans can seem pretty unconquerable, there’s also a certain level of excitement that comes from playing in such an energized atmosphere. The crowd may be hostile, but boy, what a crowd.
“I love playing up there,” said Alan Gordon, whose two-game suspension will keep him out of Friday’s contest. “That atmosphere and the support they get is what this league needs. The crowd has definitely stepped its game up since the USL days. Back then, there wasn’t much. But now – it’s a different story.”
Coming off a good 3-0 victory over Toronto last weekend, Chivas USA will look to keep their momentum alive against a Sounders team that has never beaten the Goats in regular-season MLS play. Seattle have yet to even notch a goal against the Red-and-White since they joined the league last season.
Chivas USA may be out of the playoffs, but they are still dedicated to fighting for wins and staying competitive.
“We’re just trying to end the season strong with some wins,” said Thornton. “We want to build some momentum for next year.”
