With a new addition to the offense Rapids’ look to improve their forward push against the Vancouver Whitecaps

Written By: Paul Fritz

The Colorado Rapids are set to take on the Vancouver Whitecaps Saturday night, August 5th, at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado. This matchup marks the second regular season meeting between both teams and the Rapids will look to capitalize at home in front of the Colorado faithful. Coming off a 3-1 defeat against the Seattle Sounders on July 4th, the Rapids have addressed issues on their attacking front with a recent signing of the experienced and goal-scoring German Forward in Stefan Aigner. The combination of a bolstered offense along with their already formidable defense, led by the world-class USA Goalkeeper, Tim Howard, is an undeniable threat that can rejuvenate a playoff push with 14 games left in the MLS season.

In the month leading up to their loss to the Seattle Sounders on July 4th, the Rapids were faced with the adversity of playing 8 matches within 22 days. Leading up to this Saturday’s game, the Rapids have taken advantage of much needed rest as they have had just two games since. However, The Rapid’s must capitalize on this opportune home matchup, where they have a solid winning record. This specific game will determine the momentum the Rapids can build heading into an away-stretch that consists of only one home game until September 16th. As the season progresses into the final playoff push, the Rapids will look to take advantage of each opportunity they can identify.

The Rapids’ players have confidence in themselves as does Head Coach, Pablo Mastroeni, who assures that “It’s not so much about pressure, as it is urgency.” Mastroeni is confident that this group that achieved competitive playoff play in the 2016 season is not concerned about outside perception of this seasons’ performance thus far. Rather, the Rapid’s team, as a unit, is excited and determined to find their full-form and achieve the potential of which they are capable.

A stellar performance by the Vancouver Whitecaps in their previous match against FC Dallas, along with the Colorado Rapids’ frequent success at home in Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, will certainly provide a thrilling matchup between two teams that thoroughly believe they have a shot at the MLS Cup.

The game will officially start at 8:00 pm Mountain Time. If fans are unable to attend the match in Commerce City, they can view the entire match with exclusive coverage on the Altitude Sports and Entertainment channel. Game coverage will also be provided on the Altitude’s radio station on AM Channel 950. Saturday night, August 5th will also be a special occasion regarding the Rapid’s Military Appreciation Night, which takes place annually and will provide a $10,000 donation to the United Service Organizations, on behalf of the Rapids and Coca-Cola.