Excitement for the restart of the MLS regular season filled the air around Allianz Field on Saturday evening. Not only were spirits high in the stadium for the return of the Loons after several weeks, but there was also anticipation for seeing the newest additions made during the summer transfer window. The Loons did not disappoint, showcasing some of their latest talent with defender Jefferson Díaz and attacker Kelvin Yeboah both making their MNUFC debuts as part of the starting XI. Additionally, defender Anthony Markanich made his Loons debut in a reserve role. While the new faces gave fans plenty to be optimistic about with their performances on the pitch, ultimately, it was another night where Seattle had MNUFC’s number, resulting in a 3-2 loss for the Black and Blue.

Seattle striker Jordan Morris dampened the early energy of the crowd with a quick strike in the 11th minute, assisted by Obed Vargas and Christian Roldan. However, one of the new additions would soon give the Wonderwall something to cheer about. Enter Kelvin Yeboah, who made a big impression on the Loons faithful after taking a hard knock while attempting to win a header inside the Seattle box. Following a VAR review, Yeboah shook off the hit to take the penalty kick, delivering a stutter-step shot that found the bottom right corner past Seattle keeper Stefan Frei, leveling the match at 1-1 in the 24th minute.

Unfortunately, Seattle quickly reclaimed the lead just four minutes later with a Jackson Ragen header in the 28th minute. But Yeboah wasn’t done making his mark on the game.

The Ghanaian international struck again in the 56th minute of the second half, displaying a deft touch with a chip shot over Frei to find the net once more. This second goal not only served as an equalizer but was also historic, making Yeboah the first player in Loons’ MLS history to score a brace in their debut performance for the club.

Despite the heroics, the familiar struggles against Seattle reappeared soon after. This time, it was midfielder Albert Rusnák’s quick footwork that caught Robin Lod off-balance, giving Rusnák the space to unleash a powerful line drive from the top of the box. His shot had too much pace for the diving Dayne St. Clair to reach, finding the back of the net and ultimately sealing the game. Despite hanging tough with the Sounders, the Loons once again found themselves on the wrong end of the final scoreline.

If the Loons hope to stay in the Western Conference playoff mix, they’ll need to find better results when they take the pitch next Saturday night at PayPal Park against San Jose.