In back-to-back years under head coach Robin Fraser’s stead, the Rapids have clinched a spot in the Audi 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs, in a season with no shortage of surprises, highs and lows.
In a thrilling 2-0 victory over the Portland Timbers, the Rapids have earned a spot in the Playoffs. Braian Galván assisted both Dominique Badji and Diego Rubio headers to extend the Rapids' 15-game unbeaten streak at home. Now this year’s Rapids squad will have their shot at the league championship and cementing themselves in the history books.
This year, Fraser’s side upped the ante. Recording 12 shutouts, a 12-game unbeaten streak and three come-from-behind wins this season, the Rapids have cemented their right to be in the running for the MLS Cup. This season’s playoff berth is the 15th in club history.
Individually, the Burgundy Boys made their own marks on club and league history on their journey to the playoffs. Goalkeeper William Yarbrough’s performances in the net have earned him 12 clean sheets, an individual single-season club record, and multiple MLS Team of the Week honors. Michael Barrios’ eight goals on the season have lifted the Rapids up to new heights, as well as Jack Price’s 10 assists and Keegan Rosenberry’s 2,668 minutes spent on the pitch defending the Rapids’ goal.
To cap it all off, the club reached another milestone on Saturday night. In addition to securing a playoff spot, the Rapids earned their 300th regular season win with their victory over Portland. Fraser has stood at the helm for 28 of them, and the Rapids fearless leader has now sent his squad to the playoffs for the second time.
The building blocks were there for the Rapids all along. They didn’t all look the same, but piece by piece, bit by bit, the chips fell where they were supposed to to bring together a playoff team the club hasn’t seen before. Young Homegrowns and league veterans alike, this season’s Burgundy Boys have shown the league what they’re made of, right until the moment they clinched a playoff berth.
With four regular season games still on the docket before playoffs, the Rapids’ path to the Audi 2021 MLS Cup is full of potential. The squad will take on New England at Gillette Stadium on Wednesday, October 27th. Kickoff is set for 5 PM. The Revolution was the first MLS squad to secure a playoff berth this season and currently leads the Eastern Conference with 69 points.
