Keith Costigan, Seattle Sounders FC ‘s new television play-by-play man, attended Monday’s team practice and shared his thoughts on the Sounders exclusively with Prost Amerika.

In the video below, Costigan spoke about the team’s early season struggles and recent improved play, the lack of scoring from forwards, and how the rest of the year will shape up for the Rave Green.

Sounders’ 2016 start

“Over the last few weeks, you’re seeing a team starting to move in the right direction.”

Costigan pointed out the number of players the Sounders lost prior to the start of the 2016 campaign. He felt the departures of Chad Barrett, Marco Pappa, Lamar Neagle and Obafemi Martins had an impact on the club.

Besides personnel losses, the adoption of a new offensive system–with three forwards up front–also affected the team’s scoring ability.

The broadcaster mentioned Osvaldo Alonso, Chad Marshall and Brad Evans as key players who have impressed him after the Sounders’ first six matches. He noted the defensive trio’s ability to hold key opponents in check.

Prognosis for the rest of the year

“Adding another piece would put us right up there with anybody in the league.”

According to Costigan, the team is a contender with many quality players. While the defense is solid, Seattle’s front office continues to search for and sign another attacker.

He expects this year’s race to secure a playoff slot to be tighter than ever.