2014 Review: Match Two--Rapids vs Timbers

BRRRRR.

That is my first reaction to the March 22 meeting between Colorado Rapids and Portland Timbers at Dick's Sporting Goods Park.  It was a snowy and cold day and for the fans that made it out to this match deserve a special award for braving it.  I made it with a buddy and we were simply damn cold.

But it was a good day to be out at The Dick and the fans who made it were treated to the first victory of the 2014 season and left the Rapids sitting at 1-0-1 on the year.  Optimism was high but the was a concern about scoring "real goals."

Here are the relevant stats for the day and how they stacked up to the rest of 2014:

SOG: Shots on Goal.  BS: Blocked Shots.  TP: Total Passes.  PA:  Passing Accuracy.  POSS:  Possession

Hero of the Game: The Fans. It was seriously cold out there and for a home opener it completely sucks when you have that weather.  (Which for me answers the question of playing in the winter in Colorado).  The fans that were there were absolutely dedicated and in good spirits and voice.  The Rapids played overall well that day generating many chances on goal and put seven shots on frame.  The fans that braved the weather were rewarded for supporting the Burgundy Boys no matter the weather.

Goat of the Game: The Offense. The display on that cold March day was a precursor of what was to come for the Rapids.  They took a total of 13 shots and had 7 on frame and could only muster two penalty kick goals.  Yes, I am aware that the second goal was not a "true" PK goal, but it was off a rebound of at PK after Deshorn Brown made a meal of his attempt.  The Rapids did take all three points in the match, but it was worrisome they could not score other from the spot in this game and ultimately the season (up to this point).

Record after two games:  1-0-1