Rapids look for critical points in trip to Kansas City
By Mike Gambill
The Colorado Rapids will face Sporting Kansas City this weekend in an MLS battle of the “O’fers” meaning both sides are looking for that first elusive victory and critical points this season. Despite both squads having identical 0-3-3 records so far, don’t be fooled by the lack of wins as both franchises may be on the verge of a breakout in the Western Conference.
The Rapids have clocked in solid matches lately.
Again, despite the disappointing early season record with no wins, the Rapids have put together spirited efforts against recent opponents. Playing against Austin FC, the Rapids were able to scrap together a decent 1-1 draw but limited their opponents to limited shots on goal which kept them in the match until the end of regulation time.
Even more impressive for the Rapids was their efforts last week against the defending MLS Cup champions LAFC. In a scoreless draw, Rapids’ goalkeeper William Yarbrough was able to register his 28th shutout of his career as he kept LAFC to only two shots on goal in the entire match. One of the keys to the Rapids success recently has been their relentless defensive efforts. The Rapids utilize a 3-4-2-1 formation and the back line has been able to effectively neutralize most opponent attacks including the visiting side from City of Angels.
What to expect from Sporting Kansas City.
Sporting is another squad in search of itself this early part of the season. Even though they’re searching for that elusive first win, Sporting stymied the Philadelphia Union last week in a scoreless draw and with striker Alan Pulido back in action from knee surgery over a year ago, Sporting’s offensive attack is just waiting to break out of an early-season slump with only two goals garnered this season so far.
Final thoughts on the match as both sides need critical points right now.
Sometimes it’s easy to focus on the “winning” teams in MLS and with much more attention
focused on the leading clubs in both conferences, a match between winless teams seem to be somewhat of a “snoozer.” However, for a serious soccer fan, this match poses an interesting matchup between two hungry sides who are looking to garner three points this weekend.
Will either team be able to successfully find the net this Saturday, given that Sporting is -5 in goals scored while the Rapids are right behind them with a -6 scoring efficiency and keeps these two sides at the bottomof the MLS scoring table? Will the Rapids’ developing defensive prowess save the day for Colorado to find a win on the road?
Just realize that either 1.) one club will pick up their first win of the season or 2.) we could have another draw and both sides pick up a point. Stay tuned -this match may be one of the more entertaining this week. If anything, both clubs have a chance to shake off a winless streak this weekend.