Rapids Class VI

Week 5 Goals

Without ‘Chick magnet’ Sam ... Rapids fade fast!

Rapids vs. Fire April 26th, 2008
by Geoff MacPherson

With Kids you can discuss concepts until your burgundy and blue in the face but its only going to make a difference when they actually experience the situation and only then does light bulb go off… “Oh that’s what the old git was dribbling on about”. And that is what we are hoping happened with the Rapids kids against the Earthquake last week.

Its lad’s weekend in my household this weekend, just me and my son Sam who’s 20 months old. Sam has the energy level of Colin “I like to wear ‘Ritchie Cunningham’ cardigans for TV interviews” Clark, pushes the barriers like Kyle Beckerman (as a result is yellow carded on a daily basis) and seems to learn to adjust quickly to new situations. Yet at the same time it doesn’t seem to matter how may times he provokes the cat (often resulting in multiple scratches) he still ends up with the confused look on his face of, “dude what the hell was that for?”

We play Chicago for the second time in 6 weeks (last time was preseason in the Mecca of US Soccer, Ridgeland, Mississippi) where it ended in a 1-0 win to the Rapids. Clavijo goes with the same 4-4-1-1 formation but makes three changes from the first 4 games Mastroeni comes in for DiRaimondo, McManus replaces Cummings and Gray steps in for Kimura.

Former Mexican television reality dance competitor Cuauhtemoc Blanco weaved his magic in the first 15 minutes making our back four look very nervous and disorganized, but credit to the defense they adjusted quickly (compared to the debacle last week) and for the majority of the half shut him down.

The midfield was doing their job and looked good moving forward, Ritchie Cunningham had a great strike in the 32nd minute that just flew over the top left hand corner.
McManus was great in the first half often floating over to the right and delivering some great crosses; unfortunately the midfield did not react and crash the goal in a timely manner. Cooke played a disappearing act, I don’t know if McManus was taking up Cooke’s space on the right which threw Cooke out of sync compared to what he has been use to with Cunningham who plays a more out and out striker in a central role. Even when the bust up with Gomez happened in the 45th minute he wasn’t visible and Mastroeni seemed to be playing the captains role.

The disappointing aspect of the first half was the lack of balls won by the Rapids midfield when it was cleared from Chicago’s 18 yard box too keep the pressure on the Fire defense. We go in at the half at 0-0. The Rapids are looking solid but unfortunately ‘Chick magnet’ Sam was fading at British Bulldog but definitely a good first outing for the young fella.

For the second half I had the cultural experience of I listening to the rest of the game on the way home in Spanish waiting for Gooooooaaaaaaaalllllll Rapids, it came but all a little two late. From the brief highlights I did see we had a couple of defensive lapses which resulted in the 2-1 loss.
Yes this team is still young, they are going to get us excited about potential playoffs at the same time the kids are going to do what kids do, make mistakes, its going to frustrate us to no end as we scream from section 108 or at the TV, but in my mind its will be fun to watch these guys with a large amount of potential grow and learn in front of our eyes this season. Just as it is watching Sam learn how to ping the ball across the kitchen.

CVI Questions with Coach John Murphy

Rapids assistant coach answers VI questions for Class VI

I. There is so much involved for a coaching staff; First Team, Reserve Team, Goal Keeping, training, tactics, fitness, set pieces. Can you describe what your duties are as Assistant Coach of the Rapids.

While my titles with various MLS teams have changed over the years, my primary role have stayed the same: assisting the head coach and “fill in the gaps” between the staff and team. My former boss, Mike Noonan of Brown University told me years ago that the main role of the assistant coach is to allow the head coach to focus on the enjoyable part of his job, and help with the not so fun parts! I have tried to adhere to that credo during my time in MLS and feel the results show. As a recent example, I have been working with the goalkeepers more this season. This is due to the change in the coaching staff during the off-season, but that doesn’t change my role within the team. My on the field duties still include training individuals and groups in preparation for upcoming matches. On game day of the reserve matches, I run the team with Fernando giving feedback when needed. Off the field roles include scouting future MLS opponents, match analysis/review with our players, and scouting of college and international players. However, the task that has taken a good deal of my attention over my four years in Denver is development of the Rapids Academy; a project that I take great pride in. This was earmarked as part of my job when I first arrived in Denver in 2005 by GM Charlie Wright, and I am happy to say that the growth has been very positive. Today, we have over 1,000 participants in our training/camp programs, a U-16 and U-18 boys teams in the US Soccer Academy system, as well as a grass roots programs that will be launched this fall. Even more encouraging is the commitment of Dick’s Sporting Goods as they have contributed a significant amount of scholarship funds to be used for both boys and girls throughout the Denver metro area. Their commitment has helped us reach out to kids in need from various ethnic and economic backgrounds that may not be able to afford our programs.

II. Many fans are unaware of your pursuit of a UEFA coching license. Can you tell us why you pursued it and give us one of those stories you tell over a pint!

My mother is from Glasgow, so I have always had a connection to Scottish football. As I first entered coaching in my early twenties, I began to attend coaching courses from the US, and was encouraged to attend the B License from the Scottish Football Association after meeting Scottish National Team Coach Craig Brown in 1995. Unlike many European countries, Scotland has always believed in coach education and has been at the forefront for quite some time. Andy Roxborough, former head of the SFA technical staff is the head of UEFA and former students include Alex Ferguson, David Moyes, Jose Mourinho and Alan Shearer. During a 12 year period, I have completed my B, two levels of the UEFA A and currently on the UEFA pro badge. The Pro Badge has just 19 of us with most current managers in the UK. We meet 6-8 times a year for two to three day modules, but keep in touch and submit assignments on an incripted website. This is an 18 month course that covers various topics such as:

Handling professional players

Styles of play

Key game analysis

Mental preparation

Sports medicine

Specialist training

Game related training

Fitness and conditioning

The media and technology

Ethics and code of conduct

Business management

Club structure

Contracts and agents

Planning including rest and recovery

Study visits (Pachuca, Fulham and EURO 2008)

Practical work and problem solving
The course has a great deal of content that is helpful to me as an MLS coach, and I have developed a great international network through my work in Scotland. It has had a big impact on how I work in my day to day tasks with the Rapids. Some of the stories I could tell you would curl your hair, so I will just leave them to your imagination. Needless to say, the Scots are perhaps the funniest people on the face of the earth!

III. As head coach of the Reserve Team, how does it feel to see some of the young kids you're involved with making such a big splash with the Rapids first team?

Very pleased, but not too surprised. We spend quite a bit of time scouting these kids in college, but you are taking a bit of a chance as it is difficult to determine how they will adapt to a professional environment. All have adapted relatively well, but we still need to be patient with them. All of our young players have a tremendous attitude and commit completely to the Rapids on and off the field to make it work for them. The developmental salaries are very difficult to live on, so these boys are not only training with us, but working quite a bit in our Academy system to help make ends meet. To see them on the field competing with the first team and growing has been very satisfying.

IV. You've been in MLS for nearly a decade. The Designated Player rule has landed Beckham & Blanco and now there's talk about Thierry Henry coming to future expansion team Settle Sounders. How long do you think it will be before MLS turns out a World Class star that not only turns on the American Public, but the world wide fans of the Giants of European Football.

The only way we will get the attention of the general public through a star player is by developing not one of our own, but literally dozens. So we are still a few years away from that. That is why the work that I am currently doing with the Academy is key for our long term development as a club. Eventually, we will be able to protect selected youth players that come through our system from the MLS College draft. This will eventually help us establish a type of player and playing style that will run though the club. A stronger club pool will ultimately effect our national team and that is where the world class star you describe must excel. The World Cup is the ultimate showcase, and we must continue to make strides in qualification and in the finals themselves. In the meantime, bringing in foreign players with the right attitude will help improve the level of play and galvanize the MILLIONS of soccer fans in this country. Hockey did it for decades before American consistently broke through the pro ranks, so we are much further along in that respect.

V. Okay coach, the Sox swept away the Colorado dream of a World Series. Did you get yourself in any close calls, lose any friendships, or make any small children cry from your allegiance to the wrong team?

I made sure that my five year old son wore a Red Sox shirt and hat everyday to school during the World Series to rub it in a bit. I figured that no one would beat him up since he was in Day Care!

VI. Denver or Boston. Which is the bigger sports town? And remember coach, you're not running for President!

Are you kidding me?!? Red Sox, Celtics, Bruins, Patriots, the Boston Marathon, the Bean Pot, I could go on and on……But the best reason is quite simple: people from Denver actually have a life. They can go to the Mountains or ride their bikes through amazing parks and open spaces. The lifestyle is much more conducive to a well rounded lifestyle and mentality. Bostonians are generally miserable people no matter where we end up living. We scream at the TV, complain about the team we are watching, then say “told you so!!” when one of our local teams screw up. My childhood was shaped by too many men of the ice in 79, the bad Boys of Detroit in 89, Goose Gossage popping up Yastrzemski in 78 and Calvin Schiraldi in 86 (NOT Bill Buckner!). The Pats this year was a classic example. We are still getting over that. BTW, the Bruins lost 5-0 to the Canadians in game seven of the playoffs the other night. I almost threw up after I watched the game. The Yankees are the only team that Bostonians hate more….it has something to do with that snobby French-Canadian attitude I think. That is why I grew up hating the Quebec Nordiques…..then they moved to Denver and stole Ray Bourque……that’s a Bostonian’s memory for you: forget everything except a grudge!

Thanks coach and congratulations on doing such a fine job with the Rapids Reserves.

Muchas Gracias!

I want to thank everyone in CVI for their support the past few months as I've gotten distracted with this little election thing I was running.

On the down side, I have missed out on some of the CVI cameraderie we all enjoy so much.

On the plus side, I won the dern election!

Now it's time for a vacation, and I'll see everyone in mid-May.

Here's a family pic before the swearing at, errr, swearing in ceremony.

Cheers,

BilFish

Week 4 Goals

Well you won't see the Rapids bury one - but here ya go

Relationships are Interesting

by CVI's Geoff McPherson

Rapids vs. Earthquakes April 19th, 2008

In putting my ideas together before the game my thoughts are “Three weeks into the season and I see that the Earthquakes as an easy ATM 3pts”. Am I getting ahead of myself? Or should I spend more time listening to people wiser than me that could foresee the dark clouds on the western horizon i.e. Mr. WeWantRapidMan?

Saturday night for me was date night with my wife, time for us to spend some quality time on a constantly evolving relationship. Yeah I know poor planning…..so yes viewing of the game for me would be delayed as any hope to see the game live was shot down by the unhelpful bar tender at North Star stating that they did not have FSC which we all know is a croc as it comes with most cable packages especially those that a public house would subscribe to.

It’s got to be said with San Jose in town the fans relationship with the franchise is quiet unique. As a fan could you imagine when you thought everything was going well for you and then they just walked out on you? To Texas of all places. Then two years later you have some what moved on and not 100% sure if you’re ready to date again.

Colorado goes with the same starting team they have all season with the formation of 4-4-1-1. San Jose selects a standard 4-4-2 formation.

The first 10 minutes was what we have seen in initial three games of the season after that there was a half chance here and a half chance there but where did our 2008 Rapids go? Slow, predictable, and San Jose back four were solid, which is the same back four that got carved up by the two player Galaxy team just 16 days earlier. Where was the hustle? The pace? The options? If Cooke gets closed down then we go with Gomez, or Clark, Burciaga is making his runs, but no it’s like painfully watching a Honduras mid-table club football game the weekend they installed Direct TV when you immersed yourself in the three 24 soccer channels at the expense of anything else.

We are not linking up at all, a lot of ping pong football and then we go a goal down in the 43rd minute, not great but this Earthquakes team is very beatable. Gomez & Gomes enter the game at the start of the second half as we move to a more attacking 3-5-2 formation. We start with a few opportunities but nothing that’s going to get San Jose shaking in their boots. They bring defender Vide on in the 56 minute with what I can gather is a 4-5-1 formation which I think should be banned; I blame defensive minded EPL managers for its recent global popularity.

The risk of pushing forward is that they might sneak a second and they do, you know the rest which was not pretty and not the Rapids that have got the fans buzzing after three games.

Sometimes you get comfortable with relationships sometimes they really push your limits, sometimes you question whether you want to be in the relationship and through all those twists and turns you stay with it and you work at it, and why? For nights like March 29th against the Galaxy where everything clinks and you remember why you got into the relationship in the first place.

Altitude: One on One with Colin Clark

Go One-on-One with Colin Clark: Don’t miss Altitude Sports & Entertainment's exclusive interview with Rapids midfielder Colin Clark. This 30 minute special, hosted by Altitude's Peter Ruttgaizer, gives fans an in-depth look at the Fort Collins native.

Wednesday, April 23 at 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, April 24 at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 26 at 1:30 a.m.

CVI Questions with Coach Clavijo: Earthquake Strikes

Coach Fernando Clavijo checks in with Class VI after a difficult loss to expansion team San Jose.

I. The team play was flat and had they had tremendous difficulty with execution. What are your expectations of your players in being mentally prepared and what is your role in getting them there?

Everyone had a bad night, I can’t remember of one player that performs to his level.

Expectations are always high, and knowing that Chicago also had a bad game vs Kansas City brings even more opportunities for us to recover lost ground.

II. For the fourth game straight, you had the same starting line. Thinking back on the game, is there anything tactically you would have done differently?

No, we stick with the same lineup for many reason, the first was that they had some good results and wanting to keep the group together was always in my mind.

Second half, DiRainmondo was sub because of injury and we added another striker, going to three defender in the back.

III. You've mentioned in the past that the team needs play the ball through Christian Gomez and yet the strategy appeared to be long balls from the back to catch San Jose with speed. Are the players failing to execute the game strategy or did San Jose's play dictate the game?

I believe that San Jose was allowed to execute their game plan and we didn’t execute our game plan.

We never found Christian, and Christian was not at his level.

IV. Each game, Class VI votes for a Rapids Player to be named Man of the Match. Some games are easy, like Terry Cook in the opener. Some, like the San Jose Game are more difficult. Who you pick as Man of the Match?

Looking at your first question, pretty much answer this one, I don’t believe we had any player that perform at a good level.

V. Going into the locker room a goal down with San Jose increasingly controlling the play, what was the message delivered to the team, and what changes did you implement?

That the effort was not good enough, playing against the wind we needed to put the ball in the ground.

Going into the second half we need it to pick things up, create more chances, and get numbers forward.

Going 3 4-1-2, allowing Christian more freedom, and adding another striker.

Our high pressure needs it to be as a group and not individual like in the first half.

VI. This season, Jacob Peterson has sat on the bench in each of the first four games without seeing a minute of play. What is Jacob Peterson's role and under what circumstances would we expect to see him step onto the field?

We are always looking to improve in our offense and Jacob Peterson is one of those players we had put a lot of faith on.

He started in every Pre-season game and didn’t show well, but we all know of his potential, right now we are waiting and hoping for Jacob to pick things up and show us what he is capable of doing.

We're very grateful that we have a coach that will find time for the fans of the Rapids. Good luck in Chicago and bring us back to the top of the Western Conference.

I got some bad news

Yeah, I know nobody wants anymore bad news after Saturday. But hey, just ask anyone: I'm the kind of jerk that will pile it on for you!

One lucky win on the road and one loss that shouldn't have been. One win at home that drew the attention of the league, and one that had people contemplating if we're going back to 2007. That's something nobody wants.

But we're 2-2 and that's not too shabby. So I took at peek at how we started out last season. The story is worse than you thought, we did BETTER last season. We took three points from the two games on the road and four points from the two at DSG Park. In fact, the team was a respectable 4-2-3 before the ten game winless streak.

One fan's reaction to the San Jose game

Last year left the vast majority of fans extremely sensitive. A thrashing in the home opener gave more hope than perhaps it should have. And the debacle at home is perhaps more anomaly than indication that history is repeating itself. It's certainly nowhere close to time to panic, but how the team responds this weekend in Chicago could be a defining moment for this team this year.

My how far MLS has come, now with six teams now missing the playoffs, each game feels just a little more important. And for Rapids fans, that may hold true just a little bit more.

Tomorrow's Game Time Weather

The weather for tomorrow is looking P E R F E C T.

Week 3 goals

To get you a little more pumped up for this Saturday.

There is something different going on this season Rapids fans - the first two home games of the season are both going to be perfect weather - something is is in the air!!!

CVI: Nick Thomas

If you haven't read Nick's blog WeWantRapidMan - you're missing out.

In a timely piece to go along with our interview with Justin Hughes - he gets the skinny on Bouna missing significant time this summer. You think the African Cup of Nations does in EPL teams - take a look at how World Cup Qualifying it going to affect our Rapids!

WeWantRapidman.blogspot.com: Bouna To Miss Rapids Games?

Also check out his preview of the upcoming game this weekend against San Jose

Remember, tailgating starts two hours before kickoff. We've love to have you out - open to all fans of the Rapids!

CVI Questions with Justin Hughes

Rapid Goal Keeper Justin Hughes took some time to answer VI questions for Class VI.

I. How's the injury? What happened?

The injury. The injury is coming along. I basically had a 2nd degree strain of the pectineus muscle, also known as the deep muscle of the groin. I have had groin problems for some time now, and I think this injury was just an overcompensation based on previous problems with the area. During the Galaxy reserve game I basically went up for a cross and thats what did it in. Its unfortunate and I felt like I was in a good rhythm, but thats how it goes.

II. Right now, Bouna is the number one Keeper. He had an amazing showing at the African Cup of Nations. Be honest, you want a French League 1 team to come in and buy him right? What are the challenges you face being the second choice?

I think it is tremendous what Bouna has accomplished and done for himself. He has worked very hard and I think it goes without saying that all the players, coaches, organization and fans take pride and are proud of what he has done. I, of course, want to play and look forward for an opportunity to play.

I know it comes with time and goalkeeping is a position that requires extreme resilience and patience. I know I will get my opportunity and make the best of what is presented in front of me. In terms of being the number two, I still believe I have the ability to continue to better myself as well as continue to learn and grow in specific elements of my game. I feel very involved in what goes on with the team on the field. And lastly, like I previously mentioned, patience is very important, especially as a number two.

III. Has there been any discussion of a plan to make sure you see some regular season games this season, or is it more of a keep fighting for number one and you never know when your number comes up?

I think everyday is a challenge to not only strive for the number one spot, but to also better myself as a player. With complete respect to Bouna, i think it is necessary to have the attitude that you believe in yourself and that you can be the number one keeper. Essentially thats what we all want as players is to play, therefore I feel you must be in the correct mindset throughout training, because you really never know when your number will be called on.

In terms of games, I feel I will have an opportunity at some point to get in some action. It has been discussed and with Bouna's current success, that he may be missing some action and therefore it is my duty to step in and perform.

IV. You were drafted late in the third round of the 2007 draft. What was it like waiting to be selected and how did it feel when you were? Was there any doubt you'd be selected by a team?

The draft last year was a very unique time. It was full of emotions, both positive and negative. The number of thoughts that go through the head is ridiculous. Being drafted was one of the greatest moments of my life, especially the fact that iI had the opportunity to pursue my dream. I was very happy to be drafted to the Rapids, for I previously came out during the summer and fell in love with Denver. I had the confidence in myself that I could play at the next level, but I think all individuals must have some humility in themselves. It not only makes you stronger as a player, but as an individual as well.

V. You've been in Colorado for a year now. What are the things you like most and least about living here?

I'd be lying if I said I was nothing but in love with Colorado. I grew up a skier and would come out to the west yearly for a trip to ski. I knew it would be a great place to live, but once I was older and more mature, I realized that it really would be a great place to start your career. I firmly believe it you are bored out here, then there is something wrong with you. From morning practices including views of the mountains, to Rockies games, to Washington Park, to hiking, to biking to the snow, there really is a ton to do and enjoy.

VI. MLS salaries were just published by the MLS Players Union. As a player on the developmental roster getting such a pittance from the league, what are your thoughts about the league's minimum salary standards and how do you make ends meet?

As mentioned, this is a very touchy subject. I think an essay could be written on the idea of a developmental contract, but ill try to be brief. Its a catch 22 because these spots on the roster obviously allow individuals opportunities that may not have previously been available. However, its ridiculous to think people can survive on that certain salary. It is right on par of meeting ends, but i feel it really puts things in perspective.

It will be interesting once the new CBA is presented, for the developmental topic is probably one of the key issues. the league holds a lock on you and it leaves very little rights to the players. I'll be completely honest, I'm not happy being on a developmental salary and think I deserve better, but like I said, you have to start somewhere.

I am thankful to the Rapids that I have been given an opportunity and feel I owe not only them, but myself to get the best out of my ability. My mother consistently reminds me of a saying that strides hand in hand with the developmental situation. Its not where you start, it is how you finish...

Thank You Justin, very well done and very much appreciated. Here's hoping that your time comes and your career takes off.

Bouna Time!

VI Questions with Coach Clavijo: NE Road Win

The Rapids came away from their two game road trip with an undeserved loss and a fortunate victory, proving soccer really is a funny ole game! Coach Clavijo has been kind enough to answer VI questions for Rapids fans.

I. On every Rapids fan's mind, Christian Gomez was holding his knee right before he left the game. How serious is his injury?

Christian is a big part of the Team and I didn’t want to risk him in the second half, the injury is not that bad, just a bad bruise on his right knee.

II. The team looked much more conservative, playing a significant amount more of long ball and not pushing the attack as strongly as the first two games. Did the Kansas City game play a role in that?

Not really, I believe that the field (turf) had a lot to do with it, also there was a very good team playing again us.

The biggest concern going to that game was not to allowed them to get into any rhythm and force New England to defend; I thought we did a very good job in the 1st half but struggle in the second.

III. The team ended a seven game winless streak in New England, the team you coached before coming to Colorado. Do you get any gratification from beating your former employer?

The first win in that Stadium (Gillette) have my name on it, many of the players that are the main guys were drafted by me, and I have the greatest respect for the ownership and Sunil Gulati ( President of Kraft Soccer)

Just a great win for our player’s confidence

IV. The second half play seemed much more tentative and possession suffered. Was this solely due to the absence of Christian Gomez or was did you implement a tactical change at half time?

Not only Christian is a very good player that help us in transition and possession but also someone that other team pay lots of attention, not having him there, we suffer and also going one goal up, force the Revs to push forward even more.

V. Mehdi Ballouchy hasn't been listed on the Injury Reports, didn't appear in the Rapids only Reserve match, and has yet to even appear on the bench for the Rapids. What is Ballouchy's situation?

Mehdi Ballouchy is coming back from a pulled hamstring, which kept him out for a big part of the pre-season; he is healthy right now and is fighting like everyone else to get back into the lineup.

VI. Altitude's game feed came from the Rev's telecast, and Greg Lalas continued to echo something we continue to hear around the league, even from fans at home, that the Rapids need a proven goal scoring striker. We're on top of the Western Conference and have gotten goals from just about everyone on the team. In your opinion, what would the team have to achieve to shed off last season and get the most cynical pundits to finally see that the Rapids have built a contender?

Don’t believe everything the commentator talk in the telecast, they don’t have most of the information and to be honest sometimes they have no idea of what they are talking about. In regards to needs, I was one of the people that from the beginning mention the need of a proven goal scorer, but when the opportunities to grab Christian presented itself, we jump on it, doing that limited the opportunities or players in that position to go after.

I also believe that right now we should keep improving on what we have and see what else is needed later around.

Thanks again Coach, we'll see you at DSG Park as we cheer you and the team on to victory over expansion team San Jose.

Getting Bang for your Buck!

We're now three games in, with the same starting lineup for each match. We're on top of the West and have three points on the road. Each of the eleven starters has played a vital road in at least one, if not all of the games, and Rapids fans are finding pride in new players wearing the Rapids shield.

Everyone knew Christian Gomez was going to be pivotal to the season. Rapids fans are very familiar with Terry Cook and the emergence of 2007 CVI Player of the Year Bouna Condoul. Colin Clark's star continues to grow of the left flank with a sprinkling of US National Team whispers. Defenders Jose Burciaga, Jr. 's skill has been well known throughout MLS (well except Kansas City apparently) and Facundo Erpen arrived with some fanfare and he's shown fans why.

But this team is showing incredible chemistry, teamwork, and skill with some players nobody outside of Denver new off. The product of Coaches Fernando Clavijo and John Murphy's believe in the utilizing the Reserve League Team. RB Kosuke Kimura, CB Stephen Keel, Striker Omar Cummings, DM Nick LaBrocca, and DM John DiRaimondo. The five key players make $33K or less each. The entire starting line up for the first three games amounts to less than $600K if you don't include the Rapids highest paid player, Christian Gomez. Now that is getting bang for your buck!

It's not all sunshine for everyone however. Team sources have explained the entirety of the transaction to bring Tam McManus to the Rapids to Class VI. Very smartly, the team kept cap space for an extra player in case someone had to go onto the disabled list. Players on the DL still count against the cap, but you may add a player to the roster, who also goes against the cap, in his place.

Adding McManus caused the Rapids to have an extra player on the Senior Roster, necessitating someone getting waived. That player was Dan Gargan. Since one player came off the DL, they needed to waive another player.

But here's the move you may not have noticed. To gain another spot on the Senior Roster, the team demoted a player to the Developmental Roster, and then cut Developmental Player Scott Campbell. The demoted player has been on the bench the last two games, defender Jordan Harvey.

Class of 2005

When Kyle Beckerman was traded, it was something that many Rapids fans recognized straight away - Pablo Mastroeni was the last remaining player from former Rapids Coach Tim Hankinson's teams.

Well Pablo is still there, still one of the cornerstones of our beloved team. But here is something you may not realize: With the release of Dan Gargan yesterday, only three players remain from the incoming class of 2005. Can you think of who they are?

In the mean time, let's look back on Fernando Clavijo's first overhaul of the Rapids. He brought in a player that took everyone by surprise with his vast skill, Dedi Ben Dayan. 2005 was considered a successful year by most considering how thin Hankinson left the team with talent, and Dedi was one of the biggest reasons why. Unfortunately, the real world intervened and he moved back to Isreal.

Alain Nkong came and went and came and went, and on to bigger and better things in Mexico to be sure. Cunningham was brought in, but despite bringing goals to the goal starved team, was shipped off due to his character flaws, to put it kindly. Luchi Gonzalez and Guy Melamed were young players that saw significant action along with Dan Gargan, who can take comfort in knowing he achieved some longevity in hindsight.

Because the only three players left are Terry Cooke, Mike Petke, and Jovan Kirovski. And no, I didn't list those three players in any particular order!

Here's an even more extraordinary fact, the class of 2006 is even smaller than 2005 with Colin Clark and Jacob Peterson remaining. It's no wonder that roster turnover was a major concern for the organization this past off season.

Editor's note: When writing this article I was using a stats page that didn't list players making no appearances for the season. Thanks to Jason Maxwell for pointing out that 2005 included Bouna Condoul and Stephen Keel and 200 6 Jordan Harvey.

That makes five players remain from 2005 and three from 2006

McManus In ... Gargan Out

Hopefully the Rapids today took a step towards getting the missing piece of the puzzle that fans have been clamoring for since November. Tam McManus' deal is finally completed, and he's now officially our newest Coloro Rapid Striker.

After being released in 2005 by Scottish Club Hibs, he signed on with Dundee in 2006 and netted 10 goals for a team that failed to stay in the top flight. Facing the financial struggle of relegation, he again was released only to land at Falkirk.

Never finding a role in Falkirk, he returned to his first club, Dunfermeine, where he went on to spend 2007 scoring 3 goals in 25 appearances.

The question is, will Tam fit in with the Rapids and regain his scoring ways? I know I had questioned the Terry Cooke signing, who's resume was equally worrisome before he landed in Denver. Hopefully, that initial feeling is as off as it was for Cookie.

With the signing of McManus, the Rapids had to clear a roster spot. After a difficult beginning to his Rapids career, followed by steady improvement and winning over Rapids fan's hearts, we say goodbye to Dan Gargan.

Always a hard worker and a player that took time for the fans, we wish him well and hope he finds the next step in his life a successful one.

Week Two Goals

Check it out - from our friends at Climbing the Ladder.

Also, scroll down to the "Daily Read" and check out a couple useful widgets to get your MLS news, Colorado Rapids Videos, and to see the MLS Table.
It's color coded for the Supporters Shield (1), CONCACAF Champions League Qualifiction (1-2), Super Liga Qualification (1-4), and MLS Playoffs (1-8).

VI Questions with Coach Clavijo: KC Heartbreak

Class VI, along with the C-Firm, made the marathon bus ride to Kansas City for the Rapids thrilling 3-2 loss to the Wizards. With loses like that, it makes you proud to be a Rapids supporter. Coach Fernando Clavijo has taken some time to answer VI questions for Class VI.

I. Over 30 Colorado Rapids supporters from Class VI and C-Firm made the marathon bus trip to KC to support the team. Did this have any affect on the team?

With fans behind you is always a plus but even more when you are in the road.

The group of supporters that made the trip to Kansas City was great and the players and coaches are well aware of that.

II. You started the exact same lineup from the 4-0 thrashing of the Galaxy. Give fans insight into the decisions of sticking with the young players, and keeping the veterans on the bench to start.

I always believe that the team who win games is a team that should keep playing, it was clear to me, that the first eleven that started against the Galaxy did many things right and was not reason to change it.

III. A team that can come back from two goals down to tie it up on the road shows tremendous heart. It's something that seemed absent for most of 2007. Can you tell us what the difference we're seeing between this team and last season's team?

I will disagree here, it is true the players showed an incredible heart in coming back from 2 goals down, many times last year, the team did the same or played for 80 + minutes with 10 players and still got a result.

I never had any doubts of the heart of my players.

IV. Can you give us some insight into how the Rapids roster stacks up at Left Midfield? Herculez Gomez came in for Colin Clark in the second half. Does this mean selection for the left flank falls between Herculez and Clark or are there other players we could see out there as the season progresses?

There is not many natural left side midfielder in our league and we are very lucky to have Colin Clark, he is our number one player I that position but you will see many other moving into that slot throughout the season, and the names you probably will see is Herculez Gomez and Cieran O’Brien; they are all different and can add something different to the game.

V. After fighting back and tying up the game, only to lose it near the final whistle, seems like it could be a difficult result for the players psyche. How do you keep the fight we're seeing in the team this season as we go into another road game against New England?

I believe that these guys are professional and the game we allowed to get away from us will make us stronger in the future.

VI. The team looked to win the game, and then Kansas scores with a few minutes left to wrap up the game. In hindsight, do you wish you had made a change, perhaps putting Kelly Gray into the game and riding out the clock for the road tie?

It is always easy after the fact to speculate about what could I have done different, but I trusted the guys in the field and that trust still there today, but we should learn from our mistakes and manage the game better.

As always Coach, thank you so much for your time and good luck to you and the boys in New England.

That's how to lose!

Well, nineteen CVIers and C-Firmers boarded the bus for Kansas City Friday some time past midnight. We popped Football Factory into the DVD player people pretty much either passed out or passed time.

As the sun came up - so too did many of us (I think it was in Hayes or shortly after) and the community food share was broken out - donuts, egg/ham sandwiches, Mist (Manly Mist!), and all sorts of various junk food (much of it Red). After a couple more movies, we arrived into Kansas City around 11 AM on Sunday.

Showers or naps were the general activities when we checked into the hotel, which very happily was a parking lot away from the Stadium. We all met up in the hotel parking lot at the Caulderon's tailgate with another 11 Rapids fans that arrived by their own means. Let me tell you, these kind folks put on a great event (One CVIer is still getting grief for giving TOO MUCH praise). The tailgate is hard to miss with a smoker, two enormous grills, an RV, and tables of Ribs, Grilled Veggies, Baked Beens, and deserts galore. They were kind enough to host us for the cost of a handshake!

We all filed into the stadium and into our party deck, which would be located down the first base line in the outfield. Not as great as 108, especially with the foul pole obstructing our sights, but enjoyable none the less.

The players gave us waves as they came on to the field, and then proceeded to play an upbeat style with the aim of winning one on the road! Jimmy Conrad brought us supporters and Stephen Keel's spirits down a bit. But heaven be praised, the team's heart came shining through as they fought back to even it up.

And although they lost it late, we all walked away pretty satisfied with our boys character! They fought hard, and they fought to win. Hats off to Fernando Clavijo for sticking with the young players that again stepped up and performed so well. Of course we want to be shouting "Victoire!! Victoire!!" game in and game out (what, did you watch Victory first thing Sunday Morning on the Bus back to Denver?) but if we lose like that, we'll have a team we can be proud of no matter the outcome.

A special word of praise for John DiRaimondo and Jose Burciaga, Jr.. John's play was stellar and if he keeps it up, some of those more experienced players are going to be looking over their shoulders. And Hopefully Jose will gather some satisfaction for another excellent game. While he didn't beat the old club, he did bury one beauty on them!

After the game, we walked around the retail district called The Legends, having dinner at Arthur Bryants (to mixed reviews). We went to do some drinking at the Yard House. To our surprise, this was more of a restaurant, as was all the "drinking establishments" around. So, like all good weary travelers, we settled for ice cream (don't forget the Sprinkles!), and went back to the hotel where we either crashed out or blathered on to each other in the hotel lobby.

Everyone on the road trip had a very good time (especially Kelsey the Birthday Girl - she turned 35 so everyone wish her a happy 35th birthday next time you see her). So good in fact, that we started planning the next road trip in the middle of Kansas at an IHOP!! Stay tuned. Hopefully you'll join us next time around - even if it does involve airplanes instead of a bus and endless soccer movies!

The Mysterious Quiet Fans

by Donna Feldman

Now that everyone, including myself, has weighed in on the remarkable performance of our Rapids last Saturday, some other critical issues need to be addressed. Like the quiet crowd. Clavijo noted this in his Q & A, and I noticed it during the game. It was a bit odd, and now I think I’ve figured out the possible reasons. So here’s the Top 5 reasons the crowd wasn’t loud:
#5: Too much tailgating. Start drinking beer and eating at 4:30, comatose by 8.
#4: People were too busy watching Beckham, waiting for him to do something brilliant, and forgot they were there to watch a soccer game.
#3: Too many of the 18000+ fans were only there to watch Beckham and weren’t paying attention to the game at all.
#2: Our ears were ringing from all the fireworks and cannon explosions after all those goals
#1: We’re just so used to shouting critical and despairing remarks, that we’ve lost the vocabulary for cheering great plays. We were collectively dumbfounded.

Looking ahead, I’m worried. Open up the little blue program (you saved it, right?), and look at the enormous team roster. Look at all the talent that didn’t start and/or play in this game: Gargan, Ballouchy, Petke, Herculez, Ugo, Pablo, Casey, Peterson, etc. The group that just won would seem to deserve to keep playing. But all these other skilled players need game time, too. Not being a coach, I don’t know all the fine points of keeping guys on their toes and positive and in shape, but it seems to me that playing in actual games is key, or they start losing their edge. So maybe that’s a question for Clavijo. I hope the answer isn’t that people are going to be traded.

The fans finally woke up in the 90th minute for the hockey-style brawl. Around my house, there was some wonderment about why Donovan got a pass after that blatant shove. It made for an exciting end, and was way more entertaining than cheerleaders ever were. I’m looking forward to a season with a continued lack of cheerleaders and maybe a few more brawls. And definitely more noise. Hopefully we’ll be using more positive and enthusiastic cheers, so get out a Thesaurus and make a list.

Gomez enjoys being a TV star

Christian Gomez does a TV commercial for Dicks Sporting Goods ... have you seen it yet? Well FCDTV did a behind the scenes video of our newest hero.

Certainly his magic is better performed on grass than a buffed DSG store's floor!

Soccer still has a way to go

Well, even though the game Saturday was epic, we need to remind ourselves that we do still live in American and this is still MLS. And Kansas basketball is larger than life.

These are the facts. Sometimes the facts just plain suck.

The kickoff for the game Saturday against KC has been bumped up so there's no overlap for the NCAA Final Four Kansas vs North Carolina game. Let's face it, hats off to the KCFO for giving their fans what they want! But a big middle finger from us Rapids fans making the bus trip out for the game.

So the viewing party at the British Bulldog gets moved up to a 3PM MST kickoff.

Also, if your looking for those rad track jackets you saw people wearing at the tailgate - visit the store to place your order. Limit ordering time - so act quickly. They will not be ready for the next home game - but for the one after that hopefully. CVI's own Max and Patrick are the gents behind this - so no getting stuck in customs! (Maybe the FBI or CIA - but so far they've done well at keeping those agencies at arm's length!)