If the real July 4th was an abject failure, July 4th “take 2″ was a stunning success tonight at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. The Rapids completely dominated every aspect of the game and came away with a much needed 4-0 win. The Rapids organization capped off the night with a remarkable fireworks display, redeeming the 4th for loyal fans and returning visitors alike.

Basics

Jacob Peterson opened the scoring just 5 minutes in off a perfect low cross from Cummings. Though Cummings didn’t score he figured in many of the scoring chances, including a breakaway chance in the first half against Bouna Coundoul. His second touch betrayed him however, and he was unable to convert the golden chance. A sloppy two-footed challenge against Palguta resulted in a red card, and the Red Bulls were reduced to 10 men by half.

Just two minutes into the second Pat Noonan notched his first of the season for the Rapids. Mehdi Ballouchy scored the third Rapids’ goal on a simply glorious free kick that should be an absolute lock for MLS goal of the week. Nick LaBrocca put a botched Bouna save in the back of the net to bring the goal total to four.

Bonus

Two items in the bonus column

1. The Rapids played a complete game. Excellent goal keeping by Pickens, solid defense by the back four, mostly crisp passing in the midfield, and deadly quick attacks up front. The Rapids maintained excellent possession, and the few Red Bulls scoring chances were primarily off poor passes from the Rapids.
2. Congrats to Pat Noonan on notching his first goal for the Rapids. To this point he has seemed a step behind play, but as he integrates with the Rapids he is beginning to show creativity on the pitch.

Bummer

And two items in the bummer column

1. Julien Baudet is a big, physical defender with a great foot and excellent instincts. He played well until a scary collision late in the 1st half that looked to result in a kick to his face and an arm injury. He left with an air cast on and looking fairly shook up.
2. Forgive my compassion for the enemy, but the talented Juan Pablo Angel looks totally frustrated on the field. His runs are timed perfectly, and then his fellow attackers will send a piss poor ball flying over everyone and over the end line.

Backtalk

I’d love to hear from you tonight on this:

Of the new Rapids acquirees (assuming Baudet isn’t badly hurt), who has the best chance to make a significant contribution this season: Noonan, Baudet, or Diz.

Just days into his stint with us, Fecundo has only been able to demonstrate his prodigious ability to flop, so any guesses on his contribution will be just that. But Noonan and Baudet have seen significant time the last couple games, so let’s hear from you!

Major League Soccer (MLS), Rapids News and Analysis Bouna Coundoul, Dick's Sporting Goods Park, Fecundo Diz, Jacob Peterson, Juan Pablo Angel, Julien Baudet, Mehdi Ballouchy, MLSnet.com, New York Red Bulls, Omar Cummings