Redemption draweth nigh for the Rapids in Wednesday’s rematch against Chivas USA.
The second-year franchise dealt the Rapids their most embarrassing defeat of the season June 3, victimizing a Colorado team that was playing its third game in eight days for a 4-1 victory.
The Rapids (5-4-2), who haven’t played since June 9, hope to return the favor at Invesco Field at Mile High against a Chivas USA team that defeated the Columbus Crew 2-0 on Sunday.
“They took advantage when we were not at our best, and we’re ready for them,” Rapids coach Fernando Clavijo said. “We’re looking forward to coming out and redeeming ourselves.”
Chivas USA (5-5-1) can take third place in the Western Conference from the Rapids with a victory.
Arguably the biggest obstacle facing the Rapids is stopping striker Ante Razov, who has scored 10 goals in 11 games this season. Clavijo said defenders Mike Petke and Aitor Karanka will have to keep tabs on Razov, and the midfield must prevent him from getting the ball in dangerous spots.
Rapids defender Eric Denton said Chivas USA is a much more disciplined team under coach Bob Bradley and has developed a sense of style. Denton also warned that a rested team doesn’t always have the advantage.
“That can also hurt you because you’ve been off for a little bit and it takes you a little longer to get in the game,” he said. “Our emphasis is going to be on the first 15 minutes.”
The reds were right
Don’t add Clavijo’s voice to the national uproar about the red card shown to Rapids captain Pablo Mastroeni in the United States’ 1-1 draw with Italy in Saturday’s World Cup match. Clavijo said Monday that all three red cards issued in the match were justified.
Coming to America
The Rapids moved their July match against Chivas USA up one day to accommodate a doubleheader with Mexican powerhouse America and first division Club San Luis. The Rapids will face Chivas USA at 6 p.m. on July 20 at Invesco Field at Mile High, followed by the exhibition match.
Footnotes
Fabrice Noel practiced at full speed Monday and was not listed on the team’s injury report. Rookie striker Jacob Peterson (hamstring) is probable for Wednesday. … Former Rapids standout Paul Bravo was named assistant coach for the Los Angeles Galaxy last week. … Three Rapids players are out on loan deals in the USL first division. Defender Stephen Keel and rookie Jordan Harvey are with the Seattle Sounders and striker Sasha Gotsmanov joined the Minnesota Thunder. The teams will play each other Saturday. … Kansas City Wizards striker Scott Sealy was named MLS player of the week.
