I think a ton of credit in this needs to go to Schmetzer.
He made the big decisions at halftime to exploit the already gaping wide channels with faster players. But its a bit deeper than that. One of his subs, and a Sounders fan can correct me if im wrong, was let go from the squad at one point, and brought back specifically for the role filled the other night.
In contrast, MN United's coach has repeatedly come under fire for his conservative approach to games. I enjoy the way the team plays in the attacking 3rd. However, their possession and build up play is laborious, tedious, and inefficient. It lacks pace, creativity, ingenuity. They have been successful that all of those things emerge once the ball gets near goal.
But back to the game, Heath failed to impact the game with subs. He failed to adjust his tactics with a 2 goal lead. Possession was still slow in the middle part of the field, creating turnovers and breaks for Seattle. But also, it isolated the forwards, who were left chasing the ball without help. What sense does it make to press from the front if the midfield cannot join because they were just defending your box? They were exhausted trying to do both. And here was Heath's failure... he didnt change anything, not even a player. This is a reflection of poor decision making, not just in the moment, but in the months previous where planning a team around situations is important.
The last goal shows that. Not a single United player had the energy, physically or mentally, to attack the ball.
Not disappointed. It was a great run for the local team. Heath, despite the criticism above, has take the team to two finals over the last 2 years. And the club is only 4 years old. And Seattle certainly deserves to advance. They were better throughout. As a coach (much lower level, of course), i was fascinated by the decisions of the two coaches and the impact it had on the result.