Fredy Montero fights for the ball in Seattle's inaugural game
against New York March 19. Aaron Weinberg/NSS
Fredy Montero is taking the Sounders' immediate success to the national spotlight by scoring MLS Player of the Month honors for March.
The forward has recorded three goals and one assist in the two Sounders' victories against the New York Red Bulls and Real Salt Lake.
To continue...
With the help of Montero's aggressive start to the season, the Sounders have started their inaugural season at 2-0-0, becoming only the second expansion team to start with two consecutive wins.
The MLS Player of the Month is selected after all of the games in a month have been completed. A panel of journalists from the North American Soccer Reporters, which consists of members of print, television, radio and online media, make the final decision.
Against New York on March 19:
Montero began the Sounders' inaugural season by becoming the first Sounder FC player to score, once in the 12th minute and again in the 75th minute. He also assisted Brad Evans' goal in the 25th minute. Montero's solid performance resulted in a 3-0 victory.
MLS.com reports that Montero became the 11th MLS player to begin his career with two goals and the eighth player to do so on First Kick (MLS opening) weekend.
Against Real Salt Lake on March 29:
After Nate Jaqua's 17 minute goal, Montero, from an assist by Osvaldo Alonso, scored in the 77th minute. The Sounders' notched another shutout victory, 2-0.
Looking Good...
It looks as if Seattle fans aren't the only ones acknowledging the Sounders' initial success in their inaugural season. Perhaps with the help of Montero's recent recognition, an MLS.com poll has the Sounders FC clearly ahead of the rest of the league as the strongest team so far. (Results as of 4/1/09 at 5:30 p.m.)
Which team has looked the strongest in the season's early weeks?
Seattle Sounders FC 77%
Toronto FC 11%
Chicago Fire 4%
Chivas USA 3%
Other 3%
Goal of the Week ... Again
Montero's 77th minute goal against Real Salt Lake secured him his second MLS Goal of the Week. His first goal against New York gave him his first MLS Goal of the Week two weeks ago.
Inaugural game goals: (The first Montero goal earned him MLS Goal of the Week)
Goals and Saves against Real Salt Lake:
Reach Stephanie Castillo at nextseasonsports@gmail.com
