Sounders Secure Road Win Over Earthquakes

Seattle Sounders top San Jose 1-0 despite being outshot and outpossessed

Mar. 16, 2026 at 3:34pm

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The Seattle Sounders secured their third straight road win, defeating the San Jose Earthquakes 1-0 on Sunday. Paul Rothrock scored the game's only goal, while Tino Lopez made a crucial goal-line clearance and goalkeeper Andrew Thomas made seven saves to preserve the shutout. The Sounders were outshot 25-7 and gave up 17 corner kicks, but managed to hold on for the victory.

Why it matters

The win extends the Sounders' road unbeaten streak and keeps them in the hunt for a playoff spot, despite facing a tough schedule and injuries to key players. The Earthquakes, on the other hand, will be disappointed to have lost at home despite dominating possession and chances.

The details

Paul Rothrock scored the game's only goal in the 20th minute, assisted by Jesús Ferreira and Danny Musovski. The Sounders' defense held strong, with Tino Lopez making a crucial goal-line clearance and Andrew Thomas making seven saves. The Earthquakes outshot the Sounders 25-7 and had 17 corner kicks, but were unable to find the equalizer.

  • The match was played on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
  • Rothrock scored the game-winning goal in the 20th minute.

The players

Andrew Thomas

The Seattle Sounders goalkeeper made seven saves to preserve the shutout.

Tino Lopez

The Seattle Sounders defender made a game-saving goal-line clearance.

Paul Rothrock

The Seattle Sounders midfielder scored the game's only goal in the 20th minute.

Daniel De Sousa

The San Jose Earthquakes goalkeeper made three saves in the match.

Timo Werner

The San Jose Earthquakes forward had several chances but was unable to find the back of the net.

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What they’re saying

“We knew it was going to be a tough match, but the guys showed a lot of heart and determination to come away with the three points.”

— Brian Schmetzer, Seattle Sounders Head Coach (Seattle Times)

“We dominated possession and created plenty of chances, but just couldn't find the back of the net. It's a frustrating result, but we'll regroup and look to bounce back in our next match.”

— Matías Almeyda, San Jose Earthquakes Head Coach (San Jose Mercury News)

What’s next

The Sounders will look to continue their road success when they visit the Portland Timbers on March 22nd. The Earthquakes will try to bounce back at home against LAFC on March 29th.

The takeaway

The Sounders' ability to grind out a win on the road despite being outplayed showcases their resilience and experience. Meanwhile, the Earthquakes' inability to capitalize on their dominance is a concern, as they will need to find a way to be more clinical in front of goal moving forward.