Originally published March 14, 2011 at 8:13 PM | Page modified March 14, 2011 at 8:57 PM

Sounders FC opens third season Tuesday against Los Angeles

In a nationally televised game on ESPN, Sounders FC has several events planned for opener against Galaxy

Seattle Times staff reporter

Latest from the Sounders FC blog

Get your scarves ready.

After weeks of preseason preparation, anticipation, and perhaps even a little overanalysis, Sounders FC kicks off the 16th season of Major League Soccer with a stand-alone home opener Tuesday against the star-studded Los Angeles Galaxy. The 6:30 p.m. match at Qwest Field will be televised nationally on ESPN.

Sounders FC will have a number of activities, promotions and giveaways around the stadium before the game. The "March to the Match" departs from Occidental Park at 5:30 p.m.

"It's going to be a great day and it's going to be a great day for football in the (United) States," said Schmid. "It's a great day for people in the Northwest and again it draws the attention of MLS to our area. It shows what we have become as a city in regards to the importance of soccer."

Montano still on loan

Miguel Montano, a talented 19-year-old Colombian, will remain on loan with Sounders FC this season, a move that was announced Monday after last year's loan agreement had expired. The forward/midfielder remains under contract with Quilmes of Argentina.

"He's still a young player so he still has ups and downs, but his upside is so good," Schmid said. "The glimpses he shows is something that we are very, very excited about."

NOTES

• The team also announced the signing of rookie goalkeeper Josh Ford, a move that has been expected since last week. Argentine midfielder Mauro Rosales, who has been training with Sounders FC for two weeks, is also expected to be signed soon pending clearance of his international paperwork and a work permit.

• Midfielder Steve Zakuani (hip) is listed as questionable and midfielder Brad Evans (hamstring) is probable for Tuesday's game. Despite the listings on the injury report, Schmid said Zakuani is further along in his recovery. Both will be game-time decisions.

Joshua Mayers: 206-464-3184

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