SOCCER: Sounders aim to rebound against struggling CF Montreal

The Seattle Sounders have endured a streaky season and hope to start another winning run Saturday when they host struggling CF Montreal.

The Sounders opened the season with just one loss in 11 matches (7-1-3), then dropped eight straight before playing to five consecutive draws. They followed with four victories to extend their unbeaten streak to nine matches.

That run ended Wednesday with a 1-0 loss to FC Dallas, which clinched a playoff spot.

"It was one of those losses that I felt like we were the better team across the whole game," Sounders midfielder Albert Rusnak said. "We created enough chances to win the game. But maybe it's a good reset button. We've had our ups and downs this year -- and remember where we were two, three months ago -- to be where we're at and where we are right now, I think it's a step in the right direction. We'll be good."

The Sounders (11-10-8, 41 points) have benefited from the acquisition of forward Dejan Joveljic from Sporting Kansas City and the return of Jordan Morris and Cristian Roldan from injuries. Joveljic has scored four goals in six matches since joining Seattle.

"I think we showed that we're a more mature team than we were about a month ago," said Roldan, the Sounders' captain. "This loss feels sour, of course, but it's a good thing that it's sour. It means that we played better than we did a month ago when we would lose road games. It's a step in the right direction. I think we leave this road trip with a bit of pride, with a bit of confidence going into our next game.

"But, look, if we don't take advantage of being at home against Montreal on a short week, then we're going to have some frustrating thoughts. But I thought overall the road trip was decent on our part. We need to now bounce back on Saturday."

CF Montreal (6-17-6, 24 points) have lost two in a row and seven of their past eight matches, including a 3-0 loss Wednesday to visiting Atlanta United.

"We came out flat, and honestly I don't understand why; it's not like we haven't played (midweek games) before. We had an OK stretch of the game where we created a little bit of chances, but ultimately we conceded," Montreal defender Brandan Craig said. "It's tough when we conceded because it almost feels like we don't have enough to get back into games at times. Today was quite frankly embarrassing."

Despite Montreal's struggles, forward Prince Owusu has been a consistent offensive threat, leading the team with 15 goals this season.

-Field Level Media/Reuters