If there was any lingering doubt on who is the MVP on the Rapids, and a top candidate for MVP of all of MLS, tonight’s masterclass by the Jamaican should clear up the issue.

The Rapids dominated the early portion of the match, and were rewarded in the 8th minute with a lovely crossing ball from Kandji that Omar toe poked into the far corner. Just seven minutes later, this time off a (predictably) gorgeous corner kick from Jamie Smith, Omar hit a direct volley past Chris Seitz, far post.

Cummings played the role of John the Baptist in “preparing a way” for goal #3. The Union stopped Cummings the only way you can (tripping), setting up a free kick in the 68′. Pablo crushed one right at Seitz, who fisted it right into the path of the onrushing Wells “John 3:16″ Thompson.

Kandji setup Amerikwa for a goal in the 86th minute after another stellar individual effort. The Union got a throwaway goal in the final minute(ish) after Jack McInerney capitalized on an uncharacteristic error by Drew Moor. Final score, 4-1.

Omar was simply unstoppable, on a run of 7 goals in 5 games, and Kandji proved a powerful partner up top. Kandji actually got better in the second half, taking on Cummings playmaker role surprisingly well. Both his assist in the first half to Cummings, and his unselfish setup to Amerikwa in the final minutes were spot perfect. At first trading for Mac seemed an unnecessary addition to a strong forward position, but having depth in our attack bodes well for the playoff push.

Following up on the pre-game keys to the match

• Will Wallace and Kimura be effective in offense on the wings, but still get back for the counter attack?
  A resounding yes. Both moved effectively, but Wallace shined in creating headaches for the Union on the left. His scorching free kick in the first half showed that left boot has power
• Will the Rapids be able to maintain control of possession and stifle LeToux and the counter attack?
  Let’s just say the Union looked about as dangerous as a golden retriever puppy. I’m not sure if it was the absence of Mwanga, but they simply couldn’t generate an attack. As Derek of Class VI mentioned here in the box, Drew Moor put in another stellar performance, not withstanding his late error that led to the only goal. (As a sidenote, his collision with Le Toux in the 60′ was scary…the sound of his neck/head against Le Toux’s shoulder was heard all the way up in the box. Send your Chiropractic recommendations to DSGP)
• Killer instinct: these are the sorts of games on short turnaround that will tell us the mental strength of this team. Can we close?
  Ok, so the Union aren’t the best team in the MLS. But the Rapids showed mental strength and toughness, and had the game put to bed by the 15′. Job well done.

P.S. nsubstantiated rumor that El Piojo actually made it on the pitch for 20′. Can’t be true, can it?

Major League Soccer (MLS), Rapids News and Analysis Anthony Wallace, Chris Seitz, Drew Moor, Jamie Smith, Macoumba Kanji, Omar Cummings, Sebastien Le Toux, Wells Thompson

The Rapids take on the Philadelphia Union tonight, albeit without big ol’ #9, our leading scorer with 11 goals.

The reason for his absence should come as no surprise to Rapids fans: Yellow Card Accumulation. Our big man does like to make his presence felt.

It was bound to happen, and to be honest this is as good of a game as any. We should NOT take any team for granted, but playing the Union at home is a good time to see if Kandji can be the substitute we want him to be for a playoff run.

Keys to the match

• Will Wallace and Kimura be effective in offense on the wings, but still get back for the counter attack?
• That counter attack will undoubtedly be led by breakout star Sebastien (my name is spelled with an “E” LeToux. The absence of phenom Danny Mwanga will help considerably, but will the Rapids be able to maintain control of possession and stifle LeToux?
• Killer instinct: these are the sorts of games on short turnaround that will tell us the mental strength of this team. Can we close?

Major League Soccer (MLS), Rapids News and Analysis Anthony Wallace, Conor Casey, Kosuke Kimura, Macoumba Kanji, Sebastien Le Toux

Hometown boy Jeff Larentowicz scored an absolute top class volley, a wide smile breaking his usually subdued demeanor.

Rookie sensation Danny Mwanga put another ball into the back of the net to equalize, as Baudet once again found himself culpable on a goal. In fairness, it was an excellent piece of play by Sebastien Le Toux.

Coach Gary Smith continues to experiment with formation and personnel, seeking a unit that can actually outscore our opponents. He started today with the 4-4-2, with Amarikwa getting another nod up top alongside Omar Cummings.

Backtalk

• Do you think Amarikwa is the answer for another attacking threat?
• How do you think Conor looked in his first game back?

Major League Soccer (MLS) Danny Mwanga, Jeff Larentowicz, Omar Cummings, Philadelphia Union, Quincy Amarikwa, Sebastien Le Toux