David Estrada scored his fifth goal and Eddie Johnson added his first MLS goal since 2007 as the Seattle Sounders beat the Chicago Fire 2-1 on Saturday. Johnson also was credited with an assist on Estrada's goal, which was initially ruled an own goal after it deflected off defender Arne Friedrich.
Chicago Fire Vs. Seattle Sounders, 2012 MLS: Eddie Johnson Scores Game-Winner
Johnson's goal wasn't exactly pretty either, but he'll surely take it. Johnson was able to pounce a free ball that was sitting just in front of the goal mouth following a Jhon Kennedy Hurtado shot. The former United States international also hit a ball off the post.
Just as significant as Johnson opening his account was the play of the defense. The Sounders ran their shutout streak to 336 minutes before Marco Pappa scored directly off a corner kick in the 89th minute that was aided by the heavy wind. The Fire were able to apply some pressure in stoppage time, but ultimately were unable to find the equalizer.
The game nearly was allowed to get out of hand after the final whistle when tempers began to overflow. There was lots of pushing and shoving and Brad Evans and Pappa appeared particularly upset with one another, but the field was cleared without further incident.
The win keeps the Sounders undefeated all time against the Fire, improving their MLS record to 4-0-3. The Sounders also beat the Fire in last year’s U.S. Open Cup final.
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