Defensive concerns

Seattle Sounders FC invited Jack Wilson, the slick-gloved Mariners infielder, to practice earlier this week. “He’s going to try and help our defense,” joked coach Sigi Schmid (pictured). Laughs came at the expense of a real concern. Seattle has allowed eight goals in its last three MLS matches – the second- worst stretch in franchise history – but those woes have been overlooked during a span that included three come-from- behind wins. A wake-up call came last weekend in a 3-1 loss in Houston that snapped a nine-game league unbeaten streak. The assign- ment won’t get easier in a 5:30 p.m. game today at Sporting Kansas City, whose 31 goals are second in the Eastern Conference and have fueled a 14-game unbeaten streak. – Seattle Times