Leaving the stadium I felt we were lucky to have a point. Looking back over the game, it really should’ve been three. It was a game of missed chances we could’ve easily won 3 or 4-1. Nonetheless, figuring out a way to get a point with time nearly out demonstrates the grit and determination this team is developing.
Gary Smith from the Denver Post
“As it was, I thought players showed tremendous character to get something out of the game when nothing looked as though it was going to happen,” coach Gary Smith said.
Colorado got the first chance in the first few minutes on a LaBrocca header that sailed high. This was a hint of things to come, as LaBrocca got another great chance in the 15′, a near post strike, and again near post strike at 20′. While the rest of the Rapids were simply missing the target, LaBrocca lacked creativity on the finish but at least was putting it on target.
Noonan is proving to be a great addition, and played well. He is steady eddy, and his pass to Clark in the 25th was a beauty, Clark just pushing the shot wide. You had the feeling the Rapids were about to score (and really should have), with Clark’s golden chance at 25′, a Cummings header at 29′. The Rapids were generating all the offense, but couldn’t capitalize. Dallas then took over the momentum for a brief spell, and David Ferreira took one of their few chances all game, chipped it over a late charging Pickens and netted the first goal of the game.
Noonan’s header at 39 and LaBrocca’s at 45′ nearly tied it, but the Rapids were painfully struggling to get their shots on target. Before half we had at least 6 very good chances to 1 or 2 for Dallas, but went into half down 1-0.
The second half brought more of the same. Cummings missed another golden chance in the 55′ and at 65′. The finishing touch of Casey was becoming sorely missed. LaBrocca was being forced to do far too much in the attack. He is a solid midfielder, but you don’t want him taking half your shots. Gary Smith made a wise move inserting Harvey in his place. Cooke entered at 71′ for Noonan and delivered several trademark corners.
Ihemelu missed an absolutely wide open header in the 81′ off a Cooke cross, and I had the sinking feeling this one was going to slip away. It was Cummings in the end that saved our a$$es. He slashed in and a pinpoint finish could earn him another goal of the week. He just missed two more headers in the next couple minutes.
A gritty point, the lads should be commended for not giving up until the final whistle. Now a week and a half break, then we welcome the fire. Should be a great turnout (July 4th), let’s be extra loud for the boys in burgundy!
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