Forget just making the playoffs, Seattle. The Sounders have measured success by trophies since they hit MLS in 2009, and that’s why Jordan Morris finally flashing his old form is HUGE. He’s only played three games since the World Cup break, with just ten starts this season after missing eight straight matches due to injury. But his 45-minute performance against Red Bull New York? That was the first time we’ve *really* seen the Designated Player we know and love since way back in April.
The Old Jordan Morris Is Back, Baby!
Morris was absolutely electric against Red Bull New York. You saw him repeatedly stretch their defense, making those killer runs in behind. And those truly electric moments when he broke into the open field? Pure adrenaline. The highlight, seriously, was in the 42nd minute. He won a ball in the defensive end, touched it around a defender, and then just *blew past* speedy right back Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty. He created a pure 1v1 chance with Red Bull goalkeeper Ethan Horvath! His left-footed attempt got saved, sure, but that play, man, it showed us all that his raw speed, his trademark throughout his career, is still there. He had to come out at halftime because of a minutes restriction, but get this: it was the first time since May 24 that he left a match without an injury. That’s a massive step forward right there!
“Felt Like The Old Me” – And It Matters!
You could feel the relief from Morris himself this week at training. He knows how hard it is to get into a rhythm when you’re in and out of the lineup. He said, “Confidence is a big part of it, feeling free and good in your body is a big part of it. To have a performance like that where I could get to my top speed gives me a lot of confidence going forward. That felt like the old me, which I haven’t felt in awhile. Hopefully I can build on that and help the team win games.” He’s not wrong. Our man Morris isn’t just about banging in goals. His presence helps in so many other ways. He stretches defenses with that insane speed, provides vital hold-up play in the buildup, and he’s an effective presser. That last bit is key, because it lets Albert Rusnák drop into a more comfortable position in the middle of a bank of four. Talk about making everyone around him better!
Unleashing Against The Galaxy on Saturday!
Coach Brian Schmetzer totally gets it. He knows Morris feels like he’s “such an integral part of the team and this club” and “always wants to do more.” But Schmetzer’s managing expectations, and here’s the kicker: he’s giving Jordan a bit more freedom against the LA Galaxy on Saturday! Schmetzer said, “It’s a big field down there, and you saw what he did against New York Red Bull. I’m hoping that everything’s coming together for him because we need him.” After seeing that Red Bull flash, we absolutely need him back to full strength if we’re gonna chase those trophies. Let’s get it, Emerald City! This weekend could be a game-changer for the Sounders’ season.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Sounder at Heart.
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