The Rapids are keeping a watchful eye on the training table this week as they prepare for Saturday’s playoff match against FC Dallas.
Goalie Joe Cannon (abdominal strain) is listed as probable, although he did not practice with the team Tuesday.
Defender Nat Borchers (ankle) is questionable.
Borchers said he was feeling better and he participated in most of the drills during Tuesday’s extended practice. Borchers sat out at the end of practice.
Rapids coach Fernando Clavijo said he wants to use Borchers in the right back position to give the defense another stay- home player and give right winger Terry Cooke more freedom to roam.
“We’re looking to use Borchers at that position,” Clavijo said. “Health-wise, it hasn’t allowed us.”
Rapids’ awards
The Rapids announced their team awards, with Borchers taking two prizes – defender of the year and humanitarian of the year. The Pueblo native organized soccer camps and started a fund to aid a 4-year-old Rapids fan with muscular dystrophy.
Other team awards for the season: Cannon (most valuable player), Jeff Cunningham (golden boot), Fabrice Noel (rookie of the year), Alain Nkong (playmaker), Kyle Beckerman (most improved), Eric Denton (Black and Blue award) and Sasha Gotsmanov (reserve team MVP).
Attendance slips
Colorado’s 0-0 draw with FC Dallas on Saturday drew only 9,625 at Invesco Field at Mile High. The Rapids drew 8,028 at Invesco Field last year for a Friday night playoff victory over the Los Angeles Galaxy.
The Rapids’ attendance was down overall this season, drawing an average of 13,638 people in 16 home games, putting them eighth in MLS.
Last year, the Rapids drew an average of 14,195 in 15 home games.
Footnotes
Comcast CET Channel 5 will broadcast Colorado’s game Saturday. … FC Dallas appointed Michael Hitchcock general manager on Tuesday. Hitchcock was vice president of sales for the Galaxy. … Kansas City’s Jimmy Conrad was selected MLS defender of the year, and Chris Klein was selected comeback player of the year.
