Montero scores in 26th minute to lift Sounders to 3rd straight win, 1-0 over Earthquakes

Montero’s goal lifts Sounders past Earthquakes

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Fredy Montero continued his hot streak for Seattle, scoring in the 26th minute and leading the Sounders to their third consecutive victory.

Montero has now scored or assisted on the Sounders’ last eight goals and 12 of their last 15. Seattle (7-8-4) moved past both San Jose and Colorado into fourth place in the Western Conference.

Playing their first match since trading high-profile designated player Freddie Ljungberg to Chicago, the Sounders didn’t miss his presence. They easily could have scored three more goals if not for leaping or sprawling saves from Earthquakes goalkeeper Jon Busch.

San Jose (6-5-5) tried everything in the second half to generate more offense, but came up with only two shots on goal all night.