MLS: Top 3 teams ecstatic with start of season
2. Colorado Rapids
There was tentative excitement surrounding the Colorado Rapids in the offseason. Ever since Robin Fraser took over as head coach midway through last season, their form has been excellent — they even nearly sneaked into the playoffs a year ago. And in the winter, the Rapids made several crucial acquisitions and retentions that led to many believe this could finally be their year to form a competitive side.
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Lalas Abubakar was signed on a permanent basis from Columbus, Auston Trusty and Drew Moor arrived to partner him in the heart of the defence, while Younes Namli was signed as the team’s only Designated Player, the midfielder expected to bring spark, creativity, and drive as the playmaking number 10, something that every great team requires.
Because of this growing excitement and anticipation, there was tentative nervousness that the season might crumble before them. It was only a year ago that Anthony Hudson failed to make the most of a roster revamp that got the entire fanbase enthused for the year ahead. Would Fraser make the same mistake? Well, thus far, apparently not.
The Rapids have six points from six. They have won both games with a last-gasp goal in a 2-1 scoreline. Their play still lacks that sharpness of the great MLS teams, but the results have been very positive. Namli has his first goal of the season, Kei Kamara is still scoring for fun, while the defence seems improved also. It has been an excellent start for Fraser and co.