Its been over 2 years since Dallas has been able to beat Colorado, and the Rapids have now gotten points out of 7 of the last 8 matchups between these teams. There were times in the second half where it seemed like that streak might end but the Burgundy Boys came up with the last two goals of the match, including a stoppage time winner, to take all 3 points.
The teams traded early goals that were parried back into play. First Steffen spilled a ball right to a Dallas attacker, and 5 minutes later Dallas returned the favor, parrying a ball right to Navarro's head. The score would remain 1-1 until the middle of the second half. in the 66th minute a very well struck through ball sliced open the Rapids back line. That would have been ok except a miscommunication between Maxso and Abubakar left Musa unmarked in the box and he didn't miss.
At that point the question was if the Rapids had anything left after their Leagues Cup run. A hot humid night in Dallas with two weeks off waiting on the other side, nobody could blame Colorado for just playing out the string. But like always this season, they didn't hear no bell. Djordje drew a PK and stepped up tot take it. This time however, it was saved. Cole was crashing the box though and crossed the saved ball back in front of net where Rafa got his second goal of the night.
It wasn't over yet though. Into stoppage time Mihailovic flicked a ball through for Yapi to run onto. Dallas keeper came out to challenge for it but Yapi was able to get a thigh on the ball and chip it over him for the late winner. Its Yapi's 3rd goal this season and second stoppage-time winner this month (he got the winner versus Toluca as well). Colorado completed the smash and grab and headed home with 3 points.
With the win the Bodmer Line is down to 0.0 as the Rapids have hit the average number of points, 44, for the 9th place and final playoff team. The last 7 games should be about positioning now, with a target of a top 4 finish and home playoff game.
On the individual record front with his brace Navarro is on pace to hit 16 goals and tie Rubio's team season-scoring record from 2022. Mihailovic is on pace for 25 goals and assists which would beat Rubio's team single-season record of 23, also from 2022.
The Rapids are now on a much needed two week break and will have no official training this week. Next up is a home game against Portland on the 14th.
Man of the Match: Rafael Navarro. You get a brace, you get Man of the Match.
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