Rapids coach Pablo Mastroeni, right, embraces former coach Oscar Pareja Saturday. Photo by Getty Images
Commerce City — Oscar Pareja caused some problems for the Rapids when he changed his mind and resigned as their coach last December to take the job at FC Dallas, but he takes no enjoyment in their collapse this season.
FCD beat the Rapids 1-0 Saturday, leaving Colorado with an 8-17-8 record with one game remaining in its season. FCD moved into third place in the Western Conference.
“I’m glad you asked me that,” Pareja said after the game. “The friends that I have here, the club, the way that they treat me, the players and everything that I leave here, it was incredible. There’s obviously feeling there. I will always wish the best for this club and for that group of players. I know they’re working hard and things will turn around for the club.”
The Rapids played well the first half of the season, but they haven’t won since July 25. During the game an airplane flew by the stadium towing a banner saying: “YOU HAVE WRECKED OUR CLUB KSE & HINCHEY OUT.” KSE is the team’s owner, Kroenke Sports & Entertainment. Tim Hinchey is president of the club.
Pareja supported the Rapids braintrust.
“I know that team has people who are capable,” Pareja said. “They will get it. I think you have to be patient, but they have the right people.”
