Find below 10 things which we learned from the Colorado Rapids’ 1-0 loss at New York Red Bulls on Saturday.
1. Goalkeeper Tim Howard returned to the Rapids’ starting lineup for the first time since his heroics versus LA Galaxy in the second leg of the Western Conference semifinals last November 6. He made seven saves at Red Bull Arena - many of which were top class.
2. This was the first time that Howard had played against his former club (NYRB were previously the Metrostars) in MLS. Between 1998-2003, Howard made 85 appearances for the Metrostars. His last game for them, before joining Manchester United, was July 12, 2003. His understudies that day included former Rapids’ keeper Paul Grafer and John Wolyniec, who is now head coach of Red Bulls II.
3. The 1-0 reversal on Saturday was the first time that the Rapids had lost to the Red Bulls in five meetings.
4. This match marked the first time since July 8, 2007, and 14 encounters, that the Rapids had been shutout by the Red Bulls.
5. Homegrown player Ricardo Perez was part of the gameday 18 for the first time, since signing professional terms with the Rapids in January.
6. With Dillon Serna also starting on the bench, the Rapids had two Homegrown players in the 18 for the first time since June 27, 2015, when Serna started the game at Sporting Kansas City, playing 69 minutes. Shane O’Neill was an unused substitute.
7. Albania international Shkëlzen Gashi made his first appearance of the season, replacing Dillon Powers for the final 12 minutes.
8.Caleb Calvert made only his second start in MLS. His first start came at Portland Timbers on October 16, 2016.
9.Eric Miller has now started 49 games. His 50th start in MLS should come against his hometown team, Minnesota United FC, this Saturday (TICKETS). Miller was raised in Woodbury, MN.
10. Having failed to defeat the Red Bulls, it means the Rapids are still seeking their 250th regular season win in MLS.
