Summer arrived Tuesday on a perfect, sunny, hot afternoon. With the new season came a new turf, as the Sounders broke in a new field at the Starfire stadium following some renovations. Coach Sigi Schmid called it the best turf field in the area, but we’ll see if L.A. coach Bruce Arena complains about it like all those opposing coaches did about the old field last season.
With a quick turnaround before tomorrow’s U.S. Open Cup quarterfinal against the Galaxy, some guys had a light day. As a result, Schmid had to look curious places to field an 11v11 scrimmage. There was also the first appearance of sunscreen this year for some of the guys.
Here are some pics:
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1. Setting the scene. Lots of preparations were being made before tomorrow’s game.
2. The goalkeeping crews warms up before training gets underway.
3. Nate Jaqua tests out the new field and does a bit of juggling.
4. Some PK practice at the end, but I think everyone hopes the game is settled after 90.
