From Dec. 22-Dec. 31, we'll be counting down our 10 favorite images of a memorable 2013. These images are not strictly limited to on-field Sporting KC play. They encompass our representatives with the U.S. Men's National Team, the MLS All-Star Game and a variety of moments that made Sporting KC fans smile this past year.
On December 31, we'll also be releasing our favorite fan images from the 2013 season. You can participate in that discussion by posting your best fan photos on Twitter or Instagram using #SKC13.
No. 1: Sporting Kansas City lifts MLS Cup
Was there ever a doubt what No. 1 on our countdown would be? We have had many magical moments in the 2013 season, but none will top what happened on December 7 at Sporting Park.
In front of 20,000 rabid fans, Sporting KC and Real Salt Lake battled to a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes of play. We all know what happened next. The two squads went through 10 rounds of penalty kicks before a winner was decided. After Jimmy Nielsen saved two penalty kicks during the first nine rounds, Aurelien Collin converted in the tenth round to put the pressure back on RSL. Lovel Palmer's ensuing kick hit off the crossbar and Sporting KC grabbed their first MLS Cup since the rebrand and the club's second in their 18-year history.
Following the match, MLS commissioner Don Garber presented the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy to the Sporting Club ownership group, who then handed the trophy to captain Jimmy Nielsen. In his last triumphant moment before announcing his retirement from Major League Soccer, Nielsen, surrounded by his teammates and coaches, lifted the trophy in front of his home fans at Sporting Park.
With the sparks in the background and the team full of excitement, there is no doubt that the above photo is our favorite from 2013.
Photo Credit: Mike Gunnoe / Sporting KC
