Player ratings for Seattle Sounders scoreless draw against Austin FC

HIGHLIGHTS: Seattle Sounders FC vs. Austin FC | March 2, 2024
HIGHLIGHTS: Seattle Sounders FC vs. Austin FC | March 2, 2024 | Seattle Sounders FC
2 of 5

Better than expected

1. Josh Atencio

Mar 2, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Sounders FC midfielder Josh Atencio (8) dribbles the
Mar 2, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Sounders FC midfielder Josh Atencio (8) dribbles the | Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Josh dominated the game as a young midfielder. He excelled on both defense and offense. He made four interceptions, two tackles and won seven ground duels on defense. He attempted six shots on offense: one on target, three off target and two blocked. He controlled the midfield with 104 touches on the ball, 63 passes and 83% accuracy. He also delivered two key passes.

2. Pedro de la Vega

Mar 2, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Sounders FC forward Pedro de la Vega (10) controls
Mar 2, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Sounders FC forward Pedro de la Vega (10) controls | Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

The Argentine played in the number 10 role, as an attacking midfielder, and performed excellently until he suffered an injury and had to exit the game. He was versatile, linking up with the wingers and creating threats. He still needs to improve his fitness and integrate better with the rest of the team.

3. Léo Chú

Mar 2, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Sounders FC midfielder Leo Chu (23) controls the ball
Mar 2, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Sounders FC midfielder Leo Chu (23) controls the ball | Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

The Brazilian winger had an excellent game after a long time. He generated good opportunities on the left flank, often cutting inside and shooting or passing to his teammates in the center or the right. He set up a great chance for Morris in the second half, who hit the keeper's body but was offside anyway. It was thrilling to watch Chú take the spotlight again.

4. Raul Ruidiaz

Mar 2, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Sounders FC forward Raul Ruidiaz (9) reacts during
Mar 2, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Sounders FC forward Raul Ruidiaz (9) reacts during | Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

The Peruvian striker proved his hunger for goals. He replaced Pedro de la Vega, who was injured. He had as many touches on the ball as Morris, despite playing only a third of Morris' minutes. He took four shots: one went in on the left side of the net and another one struck the crossbar. He deserves to start the next game.