The Leader

Who's going to step up and be our offensive leader?

Didn't we just do this?  Once again the Rapids are facing the Earthquakes, though this time in San Jose.  This was originally going to be the season kickoff on March 9th but it was moved to assist San Jose in their CCL campaign.  So now we've got the 2nd of 3 games in 8 days tomorrow night at 8:30pm MDT.  The game is on Altitude with Fleming and Balboa.

Injury Report:

OUT: M Brian Mullan (L knee surgery)

QUESTIONABLE: F Vicente Sanchez (L knee injury)

SJ has 4 players out and 1 questionable.  Sanchez is of course more than just Questionable and Hairston has been ruled out for this one too.  Powers may be available though.  Here's my guess at our XI:

This seems like the most likely mix of rested players and regular starters.  If Powers plays then I would expect Serna to slide into Eloundou's spot.  Otherwise I see Pablo going back to the back 5 that he used for the couple of games before LA.  Brown got the start on Saturday so I think he'll come off the bench with Torres and Buddle getting the start.  The midfield is harder to call with LaBrocca and Watts also possibilities.

Strategic Consideration: Where's the midfield creativity?  With no Sanchez and possibly no Powers, where's the engine that's going to generate offensive chances?

Prediction: 1-0 win, goal by Buddle.  San Jose is in a tailspin right now and is beat up to boot.  I think Colorado can sneak in and get a win, with Buddle netting #100.