Pre-Game: FC Dallas

by Brendan Wyatt

The Colorado Rapids are face to face with what could be the biggest game of the regular season tonight when they face off against FC Dallas.  The number one offense, versus the number one defense, old coach versus new coach.  Attack minded play versus the defensive mindset and some vigilante justice as the burgundy boys look for some revenge against the team that cold heartedly took out Dillon Serna.  Please join us in booing #34 Jara every time he touches the ball.  Serna will be joining The Voice of C38 at the tailgate for pictures, autographs and some conversation to keep the karma going.

If you missed the podcast, I touched on FC Dallas’s attacking numbers.  34 goals for puts FCD in a three way tie for the number one offense.  With 30 goals allowed the defense still has something to prove.  While the Rapids dismal offense has something to prove with just 22 goals for, has them in a tie for 15^th in the league, not the worst, but they have room to improve.

Meanwhile, at 8-0-2 at home the Rapids are also tied with FCD with the best home record, keep in mind that Dallas has played three more games than the burgundy boys.  The 12^th man is vital in tonight’s match.  Dallas is 4-6-1 when they are on the road and bagging three points at home could put the Rapids on top of not just the standings, but in the power rankings as well. 

All time, the Rapids are 21-31-13 against FCD, a most underrated rivalry if you ask me.  While we focus on RSL and even Sporting KC, the Rapids v Dallas match-up has had its moments of greatness and tonight stakes are high as the two best teams in the league go at it at the fortress that is Dicks Sporting Goods Park.

With Jermaine Jones listed as “questionable” it is unlikely that he will start.  This means that the combination of Dillon Powers, Marco Pappa and Shkelzen Gashi will have to be on form as they look to bury the ball in Dallas’s net, with the help of Kevin Doyle as well.  It will have to be a collective effort from all 11 players, coaching staff and the 12^th man to get the win. 

Bobby Burling should return to the back line after having his knee worked on last month.  Sean St. ledger is also “questionable” but could finally suit up and we may see number 24 on the bench.  The Rapids will rely on what they do best, defend.  Counter attacks and build up play seems to be how this game will be played.  

It is vital that the Rapids get on the board early.  Having scored just 5 goals all season in the first half, getting an early goal will force Dallas to play on their heels and out of their comfort zone.  No team wants to chase and if the Rapids can go up a goal before the 45^th minute will force FCD to make unwanted changes, throwing them off their game plan will surely help the Rapids as they look to remain unbeaten, 14 games now since their last loss in league play.

Limited tickets are available, so get to the tailgate early.  New merch is due to be released and as mentioned earlier a visit from Dillon Serna to the kegcast will give you an opportunity to visit with one of the Rapids most dynamic players. Come wish him luck on his recovery.

Predicted Starting XI: Tim Howard, Mekeil Williams, Bobby Burling, Axel Sjoberg, Marc Burch.  Sam Cronin, Michael Azira, Shkelzen Gashi, Dillon Powers, Marco Pappa. Kevin Doyle.