Seattle Wolves FC Plays Large Role in Sounders SuperSearch Outcome

Feb. 2, 2009 - PRLog -- (Tukwila, WA) – The Seattle Wolves FC played a larger than expected part in the final outcome of the Sounders SuperSearch, which concluded this past weekend.  Competing against the SuperSearch Finalists in an 11 versus 11 match was planned—but seeing one of their ex-players become part of the Sounders FC roster, was not.

The Wolves matched up against the SuperSearch Finalists at Starfire Sports Complex on Saturday, and came away with a 2 – 0 victory in an abbreviated match that was quite sloppy at times.  Goals from Matt Hulen and Thiago Rivela provided the ammunition, and it was clear the SuperSearch team had a difficult task in matching up against a Wolves team that is accustomed to playing together.

The early proceedings clearly favored the Wolves, with a host of scoring chances in the first half.  Only 6 minutes in, some nifty play in midfield allowed Gabe Sturm to find some space and drive a diagonal ball between the defense, reaching Thiago on the right wing with space ahead of him.  Taking a touch toward the endline, Thiago cut the ball back to an onrushing Hulen, who drove the ball far post for the early lead.

The Wolves continued to enjoy larger portions of possession, with the SuperSearch squad counterattacking when possible via their wide players.  Some nice individual displays of skill were seen from the SuperSearch wingers, who were able to successfully whip in a few dangerous crosses.  But the Wolves would again find the net in the 33rd minute on a fortuitous goal credited to Thiago.  The Brazilian sent a cross into the box from the right, only to see it bounce in front of goal and into the net after what appeared to be a miscommunication between the SuperSearch defenders and goalkeeper.

After the second goal, affairs turned less organized as defensive organization broke down due to player fatigue and injuries.  The second half would eventually be called short after only 30 minutes, when apparently, the Sounders FC technical staff had seen enough to make their judgments of SuperSearch player performances.

Following Saturday’s friendly, the Seattle Wolves FC would again see their attention pulled toward the SuperSearch reality TV show on Sunday night, as Vini Oliveira, an ex-Seattle Wolves FC player, would be selected as the one SuperSearch Finalist to receive a Sounders FC roster spot.  Vini played with the Wolves last year, and participated in the 2008 Pacific Coast Soccer League campaign as a substitute forward before parting ways with the club during the summer.  During his tenure, the Seattle Wolves FC technical staff was never short of praise for Vini’s raw potential.  “There’s no doubt he has some of the natural gifts—physique, pace, nose for goal; these things can’t be coached,” said Alex Weaver, SWFC Technical Director. “Vini can go far if he is willing to listen and learn.  He needs some polishing, but the tools are there.”

Oliveira will now join the Sounders FC training camp in California with the hopes of earning the opportunity to officially represent the team on the field.  As for the Seattle Wolves FC, players, staff, and fans are gearing up for the busy 2009 season, which will see the team compete against competition from all levels, including professional, semi-professional, and amateur.

For more information regarding the 2009 Seattle Wolves FC season, visit www.SeattleWolvesFC.com .

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SWFC employs a tiered system of teams geared toward developing committed, professional soccer players. In addition, SWFC strives to be an exciting sports entertainment venture and small business marketing platform that serves that Greater Seattle area.