Match ratings: No Benny? No Problem for Sporting Kansas City

Can we call it a breakout game? We can. We may as well. After four matches in which Sporting Kansas City’s opponents had scored as many goals for them as their own players, SKC put three by Tim Howard and were just minutes and an unfortunate penalty kick call away from recording another clean sheet.

And hey, Seth Sinovic, great shot on his first regular season goal. Was a lovely way to open the scoring. Sinovic also notched an assist and was part of a defensive unit that kept Colorado in check. The lack of Benny Feilhaber proved to be a non-issue as Sporting were able to keep Colorado contained and frustrated, enjoying an edge in possession and generally controlling the match. Probably worth noting that the Graham Zusi “experiment” seems to be working, and is less like an “experiment” and more like “a thing that’s happening”.

Both Roger Espinoza and Illie Sanchez broke the 90% passing success rate from the midfield, and Gerso Fernandez looked dangerous in the attack, notching his first goal of the season as well.

Dom Dwyer made it three in the 84th minute, ending his scoring drought and capping a night that fans had been waiting for.

So with that said, how did the performances stack up in the old rate-o-matic? Overall, quite well.

Top marks to Seth Sinovic for his performance. Gerso and Dom scoring was also great. If the defense stays lights out and the goals start coming, Sporting will be a tough nut to crack, especially at home. Can they stay undefeated going away to the Portland Timbers and FC Dallas? All I know is my gut says... maybe.