First we get 2 weeks between games, then we get 4 days. Such is MLS scheduling. The Rapids are right back at it after their win against DC over the weekend. Tomorrow night Dallas is in town for their first of two trips in the next 2 and a half weeks to Denver. Game time is 7:30pm at the Dick and even though its a weeknight the supporter's groups will still be hosting the tailgate 2 hours ahead of time.Official Injury Report:
PROBABLE: MF Terry Cooke (L knee sprain)
Official Discipline Report:
ONE CAUTION FROM SUSPENSION: Cory Gibbs
TWO CAUTIONS FROM SUSPENSION: Conor Casey, Ugo Ihemelu
International Absences:
Conor Casey (U.S. National Team)
Dallas has 5 players listed as out and a 6th listed as Questionable so they're going to have a hard time just filling out the 18-man roster card. My guess on the lineup:
Pickens
Ihemelu - Gibbs - Palguta - Harvey
Mastroeni
Mastroeni
LaBrocca - Ballouchy - Clark
Cummings - Noonan
Hey, if its not broke, don't fix it. 10 of this group started in the 3-0 shellacking of Dc on Saturday and I expect Gary Smith to pretty much stick with the same lineup. The only change i see is Peterson sitting and Ballouchy starting. Peterson didn't do well on the right on Saturday and was subbed at half.
Key To Look For:
This has trap game written all over it. Midweek game at home against an opponent that looks pretty easy in the standings. If the rapids overlook this game towards the road trip to Seattle on Sunday hey will pay for it. If they keep their minds on the team in front of them they should be able to handle Dallas.
Prediction: 1-0 win, goal by Omar Cummings. I think the short rest time and the trap nature of this game will keep the Rapids from really controlling the play. When push comes to shove though the Rapids are better than Dallas and they'll settle down long enough to finish the job.
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3 comments:
I hope you are right. I wonder what Gary Smith thinks about the notion of a "trap game"
Peterson wasnt the sub at half noonan was.. but I could see the lineup above or ballouchy/peterson switch
Jason, good call on the line-up prediction. Despite your and others' doubts about Ballouchy, I see him playing very well right now. He has responded well to being dropped for the Salt Lake game and is playing some bright stuff, particularly first half last night. There is no doubting his talent and I am enjoying seeing him play well.
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