NFLBy: Keith Richards
In the Rocky Mountain Cup this past Saturday, the Colorado Rapids managed to get a point off of Real Salt Lake. Lalas Abubakar’s first goal on the season was the equalizer that put Colorado even with Salt Lake. Before the half, Pablo Ruiz put Real ahead with a penalty in the 45th minute. It was the second straight draw for the Rapids, which puts them sixth in the West in the MLS with a record of 2-2-2.
Looking at the positive side, it was the first time the Rapids have looked dominant in this campaign. Colorado had the possession edge (63% to 37%) and the shots edge (16-5). If there is an issue to be found there, it’s that Mile High’s finest only had six shots on goal. Of those six shots, five were saved. So, either it was a valiant effort by Zac MacMath, or the Rapids are still not clicking like they would like to be.
Help, though, is on the way for Colorado. As March expired, the Rapids acquired Gustavo Vallecilla from FC Cincinnati for $800,000 GAM (the amount is equally split between 2022 and 2023). Padraig Smith, the Executive VP and GM for Colorado, has high praise for the Ecuadorian. He states, “Gustavo is a young, explosive defender who is one of the top center back prospects in the country. We believe he has the qualities to develop into a dominant defender in this league and look forward to welcoming him to the club.”
Vallecilla will take the U22 Initiative Slot for Colorado on their roster. Since 2021, Gustavo has made 25 appearances in his time in Ohio and scored two goals. With Auston Trusty joining Arsenal this summer, Vallecilla will be a valuable asset.
There is plenty of season left, but the Rapids could use a win against Dallas. Another dominant performance, coupled with a win, could go a long way in ensuring they defend their Western Conference title. We’ll be keeping a close eye at Nuts and Bolts Sports.
