In their final tune-up for the upcoming 2018 season, Colorado Rapids Soccer Club downed USL side Phoenix Rising FC 2-0 at the Phoenix Rising FC Soccer Complex in Scottsdale, Arizona.
On an unseasonably chilly Valentine’s Day evening, new head coach Anthony Hudson selected a strong Starting XI featuring captain Tim Howard, Dominique Badji, Nana Boateng, Edgar Castillo, Kortne Ford, Marlon Hairston, Enzo Martinez, Jack McBean, Jack Price, Tommy Smith and Deklan Wynne.
The Rapids were quick out of the gates, winning a corner inside the opening minute. Just 13 minutes later, a well-taken Jack Price free kick was parried by Phoenix goalkeeper Carl Woszczynski, who also saved the ensuing rebound effort from Rapids striker Dominque Badji.
After heading in to the locker room level at 0-0, the Rapids finally found their breakthrough goal in the 75th minute when Badji climbed high to head home a perfectly-placed cross from wingback Marlon Hairston. The Rapids then doubled their tally just five minutes later when newcomer Tommy Smith notched his first goal in burgundy off a Jack Price corner.
Despite having numerous other chances, the game would eventually end 2-0. The Rapids now round out preseason competition on Thursday with a closed-door scrimmage against New York Red Bulls.
For information on the Rapids upcoming Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League clash with MLS Cup holder Toronto FC, as well as on the upcoming 2018 Major League Soccer season, please visit ColoradoRapids.com.
Box Score:
Colorado Rapids 2-0 Phoenix Rising FC
February 14, 2018 - Scottsdale, AZ
Scoring Summary:
COL: 75’ Dominique Badji
COL: 80’ Tommy Smith
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