RSL goalie Nick Rimando was giving one last interview as he walked slowly back to the locker room. His heroics in the first game, including several world-class saves AND playing with a broken nose, and several fantastic saves in game 2 of the loser-out MLS playoff game, hadn’t quite been enough. His MLS season was over.

Slowly, a low rumble pierced the dark. Coming from the northeast upper deck of the RioT Stadium –the visiting fan section– it gathered strength and purpose.
“Nick Rimando [Clap, Clap, ClapClapClap!]”
“Nick Rimando [Clap, Clap, ClapClapClap!]”
It continued, getting louder and louder, until the interview was finished: Seattle Sounders’ fans acknowledging a fantastic performance by the USA National Team goalie.
“Nick Rimando [Clap, Clap, ClapClapClap!]”
Rimando turned, walked slowly back across the field, looked up at the cheering fans, raised both his hands above his head, and applauded their cheer.
Respect.