6 things from the weekend that made Rapids fans smile

The world needs more reasons to smile. And those of us in Burgundy Nation could use some smiles as well. Let’s state the obvious: the 2017 season for the Colorado Rapids have been a galactic disappointment. So much so that someone referred to this year as the 2018 preseason—and for legitimate reasons. Mercifully, fans received a much-needed reprieve this weekend.

Here are six things that happened around MLS that we can all be happy about.

1. We are no longer in last place in the West. For those of you who have given up on looking at the MLS Western Conference table, the Colorado Rapids are at 29 points, tied with the LA Galaxy with a game in hand, and ahead on goal differential. (Honestly, being ahead of the LA Galaxy could have its own place on this list, but I digress.)
2. FC Dallas is below the playoff line. Does FC Dallas or Real Salt Lake stand as the Rapids’ archrival? In my mind, I see a case for FC Dallas holding that position. But either way, they are one of our biggest rivals, and they have dropped down to 8th, tied in points with Real Salt Lake and the San Jose Earthquakes. Does this make you smile? It sure makes me happy.
3. Gordo got his third game-winning goal of the season. This is quite astonishing. Of the eight wins the Rapids have, Alan Gordon has the game-winning goal in three of them. I know some have questioned his role on the team, but this statistic is something we need to appreciate.
4. Seeing Clint Irwin and Drew Moor enjoying such success. I’m walking a thin line on this one, but Irwin and Moor have played a big part in Rapids history (especially Moor). Securing the Supporters’ Shield after 32 games with an astonishing 65 points (19-5-8, W-L-T) is remarkable—and on top of this, being a whisker away from winning MLS Cup 2016? If we hold to the notion that some are always are part of the Rapids family (and these two would qualify), we should enjoy their success. (Would some of you add Jeff Larentowicz with Atlanta United FC? Just curious.)
5. The outpouring of love toward KD9 in his retirement. I was and am a Kevin Doyle fan. I know that we hoped he would produce more, but he gave Rapids fans some fantastic moments which have been recounted elsewhere on the Burgundy Wave site. Yet, the stories of his kind and benevolent generosity will always be remembered in his short time here. He brought a class to the Rapids organization that won’t be forgotten anytime soon. Kevin, we wish you well in this next chapter of your life. We know that, given all you’ve shown on and off the pitch, the world will be continue to be a better place because you’re in it. All God’s best to you.
6. Carter Hampton (pictured) serving as the kid captain for this weekend’s match. Carter is battling Chronic Kidney Disease, and the Rapids did their part to put a smile on his face by signing him to a one-day contract, making him the honorary captain, and allowing him to participate the coin toss. And, as we see here, letting him hang out with the team (who had smiles galore in their own right).

What are some Rapids-related events that happened over this past weekend that made you smile? Comment or Tweet!