SOUNDERS FC: What we've learned after a three-game week

Fredy Montero scored a goal in each of the Sounders' three matches and was often the most dangerous player going forward in each match. Aaron Weinberg / NSS

After flying back from New York on Sunday, Seattle Sounders FC are coming home for a well-deserved rest from there three-game flurry last week. Home games against the San Jose Earthquakes and D.C. United were followed by a trip cross-country to face a free falling New York Red Bulls.

The Sounders needed a positive string of results leading up to the halfway point of the MLS season and were able to take five points out of a possible nine in last week's matches.

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The Sounders did not use the same starting 11 players for any of the three matches as players brought in and out of the starting lineup to fill holes left by injuries and suspensions.

So what have we learned about Seattle's team as they look to post one of the best inaugural seasons in MLS history?

Forwards: Montero is still dangerous. Jaqua adds an element as a striker.
Fredy Montero scored a goal in each of the Sounders' three matches and was often the most dangerous player going forward in each match. Montero introduced himself to the league by scoring three goals in the first two games of the season. After early season controversy, Montero went seven matches without a goal before scoring against the Colorado Rapids. The Colombian is now tied for third among top goalscorers with seven and has solidified himself as one of the Sounders' most dynamic players.

Nate Jaqua did not play against San Jose. However, he played a majority of the next two matches. Jaqua's absence is noticeable because of his ability to win balls cleared from Seattle's defense and the way he helps keep possession. Although Sebastian Le Toux and Roger Levesque are adequate replacements for the big forward, Jaqua is irreplaceable in helping to set the tone from the top of the Seattle offense.

Midfielders: Alonso is crucial, Ljungberg is Ljungberg.
Freddie Ljungberg came to Seattle as one of the focal points of the Sounders as a team. He is considered to be one of the all-time greats at his former club Arsenal FC and is also idolized for his exploits on the international level with the Swedish International Team. He has had all the experience he needs to ply his trade in the MLS and has so far produced some great performances. Although he has only scored two goals, Ljungberg's production should continue to improve as the season moves on.

Little was known about Osvaldo Alonso before his move to the Sounders. Alonso has now become a crucial element in Seattle's midfield and has risen up as one of the premier holding midfielders in MLS. Alonso is the one player head coach Sigi Schmid seems to have difficulty finding a replacement for as Stephen King, Brad Evans and Nate Sturgis have all been used when Alonso was out. Alonso can be particularly noted for his physicality in the midfield, but he has also surprised people with his ball control and passing after he is able to win the tackle. Schmid has called Alonso one of the best one-on-one defenders in his squad.

Defenders: All hail El Presidente.
Jhon Kennedy Hurtado and Tyrone Marshall have become a formidable pairing in the Sounders' central defense. They have shutouts to prove it. When Hurtado and Marshall are not paired with each other, Seattle allows more goals against them. Hurtado was another unknown player when he signed with Seattle, but has established himself as an authoritative presence in the center defense.

Patrick Ianni played well as a replacement for Hurtado against San Jose and New York and is a strong player in the central defensive rotation.

James Riley has appeared to relish his right back position and is showing potential as he contributes to the offense by combining down the right side of the pitch. Tyson Wahl has also been a surprise and has shown consistency since he has been given the chance to play.

Crosses seemed to prove the biggest difficulty for the defense to handle this last week, as balls from the wide position resulted in three of the five goals scored against the Sounders. Sounders defenders will continue to be urged to close players down from the wide positions so dangerous crosses cannot be sent into the box.

Goalkeepers: Keller is the man.
Kasey Keller is a product of Washington soccer. He is a well-traveled goalie who gives the Sounders stability in the back. Last week, Keller's frustrations boiled over after Seattle failed to solidify a win against D.C. after going up 3-1. As the captain, he has taken responsibility and has led a young Sounders team by example.

Reach Jesse Amorratanasuchad at nextseasonsports@gmail.com