Lightning Strikes

(Not Once but Twice)

There's a good chance of lightning in the area tomorrow night in Commerce City as the Rapids take on the former Clash.  Forecast for game time is 50 degrees and 75% chance of thunderstorms.  Luckily the wind should be coming out of the East so it will hopefully angle the rain a bit and allow the East roof that stops right over my row to protect me.  The Rapids will try to avoid setting a new MLS home winless streak record (currently tied for the record at 10).  The rainy tailgate will start at 5pm.  Those who can't make it or don't want to brave the weather can watch on UniMas.

Injury Report:

OUT: D Marc Burch (rib injury); D Drew Moor (knee)

Unavailable:

F Kevin Doyle (transfer paperwork); F Luis Solignac (transfer paperwork)

San Jose is coming in off of short rest having played a Cinco de Mayo game in Houston on Tuesday.  they're also banged up being down 5 players, including the most annoying player in the league, Lenhart.  My bet at our starting group:

I'd prefer to see O'Neill and Serna over Burling and Sanchez but I bet Pablo tries to keep things as stable as possible.  I think Badji has worn out his chances and we see Torres up fromt but Gaby could still start at right wing with Badji in.

Strategic Consideration: This is as close to a must win as you can get without playoff elimination being on the line.  Home game against a weaker, beat up team, coming in on short rest.  If we don't get a win tomorrow night its time for some serious leadership changes.

Prediction: 1-0 win, goal by Torres.  San Jose's strike force is depleted and our defense is strong so I can see us getting a shutout.  Torres is hot right now and he'll get us our first home win since July 25th of last season.