The Sounders returned to the training field at Starfire under sunny skies, which could also be a metaphor for their mood coming off of a decisive 4-1 victory over MLS debutants FC Cincinnati.

As one might expect, there wasn’t too much going at practice today. However there was a new (old) player at camp by the name of Tucker Bone, the Sounders’ 1st round draft pick out of the Air Force Academy. While Coach Brian Schmetzer didn’t address Bone specifically, a Sounders spokesman noted he was getting additional training as he is able, while he continues to finish his military commitments.

The talk of the team still focused on the 2-goal performance of Jordan Morris. In light of previous comments where he cautioned that the fans should be patient, I asked if Schmetzer was surprised at Morris’ effectiveness right out of the gate.

“No, because Jordan is a goal scorer,” Schmetzer said. “I look at things from a different lens. Does the player play well; did he help the team achieve objectives.” Schmetzer was impressed with Jordan’s defensive commitment as well, noting the occasions on which he tracked back to help the team.

Even with the impressive scoreline, Schmetzer noted things weren’t perfect, focusing again on the defensive midfield and concerns about not being able to retain possession. “There was a spell early in the second half where we weren’t keeping as good of possession as I would have liked,” Schmetzer said. He noted that will be a focus for the remainder of the week.

That aside, the team was clearly happy to start the season on a positive note. “I believe that this team needed that,” midfielder Cristian Roldan said. It just benefits all of us and hopefully we can continue this momentum.” While noting the goal conceded was “unfortunate,” he thought the team responded and played well.

Midfielder Gustav Svennson was also happy for Morris, noting the tough road he had to travel to return. As to his pairing with Roldan, he indicated they are still working on things, since that pairing is much different than things were with Ozzie Alonso. “I have to pick up all the horseshit and pretty much cover wherever they’re not,” Svensson said. “But, I mean I’ve been doing that my whole life.”

The Sounders will be practicing all week at Starfire, in preparation for the next game against Colorado this weekend.