Scarves up, Seattle, for it's finally here, the day Sounders fans have been waiting on for about five months -- First Kick 2011! For the third season running, the Seattle Sounders are tasked with providing an enjoyable match to start off the Major League Soccer season, with the L.A. Galaxy traveling to the unfriendly confines of Qwest Field to see if they can dampen Seattle's spirits.
The Galaxy are looking to throw some star power Seattle's way, bringing along a team that includes David Beckham, Landon Donovan and now Juan Pablo Angel. The Sounders, meanwhile, will see the return of Jhon Kennedy Hurtado after the defender was out almost the entire 2010 season. They'll add Alvaro Fernandez to the starting lineup (finally!), having him attack down the wing, behind Fredy Montero and Blaise Nkufo. Steve Zakuani remains questionable with a hip injury.
For detailed previews of today's game, including a scouting report and questions with Galaxy fan and SBN founder Tyler Bleszinski, visit SB Nation's Seattle Sounders blog, Sounder at Heart. Meanwhile, we'll have a match preview, latest news, lineups, and in-game updates right here, to satisfy all your First Kick needs.