Rapids Lose Cool And Game

After going up early Colorado gave up two goals and then lost their heads in a extra-time scuffle that ended the game.  There's not a whole lot to write about this one, it really boils down to this.  The Union had two shots on target, both from outside the box, both scored.  Philly had a total xG of 1.0.  Colorado had five shots on target, only one went in, and a combined xG of 1.4.  However almost 0.8 of that came form the PK alone.  In the end, Philly finished its chances, Colorado (once again) did not.  What this game really showed is that our backups aren't MLS quality.  With our injuries, that's a problem.

The other big story from this match was is the scrum that ended the game.  For whatever reason both teams were playing chippy all night.  Referee Victor Rivas didn't do a great job of controlling the game but that's no excuse for what happened.  Colorado was clearly frustrated with the time-wasting tactics of the Union (including a ridiculous simulation by Blake when he hit his head on Cabral's boot, and somehow Cabral got the card).  That boiled over at the end of the match when Blake shepherded a ball out of play and Barrios took the opportunity to give him a shove.  That kicked off a melee involving at least half the players on the field.  In the end Galvan saw red, Barrios saw yellow, and Philly picked up a red and two yellows.

It was dumb.  Barrios has to be smarter, and Galvan has to learn to handle his emptions.  This isn't the first time he's popped off, and some of the footage suggests he may have spit on a Union player.  If he did, then he'll be out longer than a game.  If he didn't (or they can't prove it) then he'll just miss the Atlanta game.  Regardless, it was dumb to get roped into a fight like that.

We move on to Atlanta, and then the doubleheader with FSL.  Given that I wouldn't be shocked if we see more backups tomorrow night.

Man of the Match: Connor Ronan.  Back to back weeks where he was the best player on the field.  Nobody looked great in this one, but he showed he wanted it more than most of the team.