CARSON, Calif. — Felix Borja headed in Akira Kaji’s cross in the 85th minute for the go-ahead goal, boosting Chivas USA to a 2-1 victory over the Rapids on Saturday night.
“We had a really bright start, the guys pressured very well, Rapids coach Pablo Mastroeni said after the match. “The first half was very solid. I think we came out at half, trying to find our legs a bit and control the game again.”
Kristopher Tyrpak tied it for Chivas USA (8-18-6) in the 65th minute. From 25 yards out, Tyrpak dribbled through four defenders and toe-punched the ball past Rapids goalkeeper Clint Irwin.
I was just caught up in the moment, just trying to find some space and then it popped out and I was right there,” Tyrpak said. “Tried my best to put it past the goalie.”
Rapids defender Zat Knight, who wore the captain’s armband in his first MLS start, said Colorado conceded too easily, shouldering blame himself.
“Very sloppy goals. Two easy goals. Not much left from concentration and tiredness,” Knight said. “I thought I was at fault for the making one of the goals, [Felix Borja] just got in front of me. Two sloppy goals and we need to do better as a team, as a defense as well.”
Chivas USA defeated Colorado (8-16-8) at home for the first time since 2009 and won its second straight after a seven-game losing streak.
“”We are happy because it’s important to close out the season with a good mentality,” Chivas USA coach Wilmer Cabrera said. “This is the second win in a row in October, something this franchise hasn’t done in a while. The mentality in the locker room is good.”
John Neeskens opened the scoring in the 30th minute for the Rapids, who extended their franchise-record winless streak to 12 games.
“Charles [Eloundou] got the ball, he ran and ran, I supported him on the wing, he gave me the pass and I finished the play,” Neesekens said.
