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Sure, there is always hope. There have been a number of encouraging signs from the Colorado Rapids that they could break this scoring drought that they are in. And certainly, they could get one over on their old coach and steal three points against FC Dallas in Texas.
Do I think this is likely? Probably not a win, but a draw is at least possible. And I think this will be the match where the Rapids score. (I have said this about every match this year, so, you know, take that with a grain of salt I guess)
The Goal for the Burgundy Boys today: just score a goal.
What To Watch For:
1) The Illusive Goal: Will this be the week? I sure hope so because it would be nice to stop talking about the Rapids lack of scoring. The Rapids were tantalizingly close last weekend, but could not find the break through. Win, Lose or Draw in this one, just get a goal.
2) Drew Moor Is Fit: In the Rapids Podcast this morning it was brought up quietly that Moor is 100% fit and available for selection. Now, do I think he starts--no. But just having him back in the 18 will be a massive boost for the club.
3) No Pablo, Know (a) Win?: The conspiracy theorists will have a field day if the Rapids win this one as Pablo Mastroeni was suspended for being sent off last week. Honestly, I could care less who is the gaffer if they win the match.
Officiating Crew:
Referee: Armando Villarreal
Assistant Referees: Adam Garner, Jeremy Hanson
Fourth Official: Ismail Elfath
Injuries/Suspensions:
Injuries: Colorado Rapids--OUT: Carlos Alvarez, Sam Cronin. QUESTIONABLE: Marc Burch, Axel Sjoberg. FC Dallas--OUT: Dan Kennedy. QUESTIONABLE: Coy Craft, Stephen Keel, Mauro Diaz.
Suspensions: Pablo Mastroeni
How To Watch:
Match Date/Time: Friday, April 10 at 5:00 PM MDT
Venue: Toyota Stadium--Frisco, Texas
Television: UniMas
Radio: 1600AM The Zone
OnLine: MLS Live
Predicted Starting XI:
Assuming that the Rapids continue with the 4-2-3-1 that they have run this year, here is my prediction of a Starting XI:
Clint Irwin, Michael Harrington, Bobby Burling, Shane O'Neill, James Riley, Lucas Pittinari, Marcelo Sarvas, Juan Ramirez, Dillon Powers, Vicente Sanchez, Gabriel Torres
Please check back with Burgundy Wave often as this is your official game thread for this Western Conference battle and all things Rapids!