It was a run for a cup that divided a team, created skeptics, and disappointed fans.
Rapids have had both amazing and frustrating performances throughout the entire group stage of the CONCACAF Champions League. Overall, their achievements resulted in the MLS Champs needing a tie from Thursday night’s match between Metapan and Real Espana. With a 3-2 win, Metapan advanced to the next round, while the Rapids hang up their CCL boots.
The controversy CCL caused in Colorado began when Coach Gary Smith kept the majority of his first team at a safe distance away from the CCL pitch. The second team, along with Wells Thompson and a rotation of first team players, did an impressive job, but were unable to get some much needed points throughout the tournament.
From the beginning, fans questioned Coach Smith’s choices. Like all MLS coaches, he struggled with balancing MLS and CCL. The week the Rapids brought home a memorable three points from El Salvador and defeated FC Dallas; Gary Smith's decisions seemed to have paid off. That excitement and success only lasted for a week as the Colorado Rapids were scoreless in their next two matches.
Those scoreless games cost the Colorado Rapids the Rocky Mountain Cup and advancement in the CONCACAF Champions League.
In the end, Smith got his wish. The Rapids made the MLS playoffs.
The Colorado Rapids finish off the MLS regular season Saturday night in Vancouver. This match determines their standings in the post season. Watch on Altitude 2 at 5:00pm.
Top 10 things fans learned during the Rapids CONCACAF Champions League run.
- In other countries, it is okay to throw bags of urine at the opponent.
- A police escort is not just for the President of the United States.
- Colorado has many Metapan, Real Espana, and Santos Laguna fans.
- If the word “dive” is trending on Twitter, a CCL match is going on.
- Head coaches do not have to make an appearance in CCL matches.
- The CCL referees are picky on ball placement, inconsistent on calling fouls, and haters of wedding rings.
- The Rapids were one of the only teams in CCL that did not have a shirt sponsor.
- Dick’s Sporting Goods Park is pretty awesome.
- If CONCACAF Champions League was renamed UEFA Champions League, the Rapids would have advanced.
- Even with poor refereeing and diving players, it was an honor to be a part of the prestigious CONCACAF Champions League.
Comments