The Colorado Rapids' winless 2019 continued, as the first game of the Conor Casey era ended with Vancouver Whitecaps FC winning 3-2 at DICK'S Sporting Goods Park in MLS Friday Night on TSN.
Vancouver controlled the play early, but Colorado clawed their way into the game to make it 2-2 in the second half. However, a late red card and subsequent goal conceded meant Casey's first game in charge extended many of the patterns seen with the Rapids under previous manager Anthony Hudson.
The Whitecaps opened the scoring 16 minutes in, as Fredy Montero received a pass to cut through the Rapids defense, and sent a low shot to the far corner of the net. It was the Colombian's second goal of the season. 10 minutes later, Lucas Venuto opened his MLS account with a tap-in off Montero's low cross.
The Rapids got a lifeline in the final minutes of the first half, as Montero brought down Kellyn Acosta and a penalty was called. Kei Kamara scored the spot kick to narrow the deficit in the 38th minute.
Montero conceded a second penalty a few minutes into the second half, after pushing teammate Brett Levis into a couple Rapids players in the box. Kamara stepped up again and scored his second PK of the night.
Colorado's resurgence hit a road bump in the 77th minute. Doneil Henry fouled Diego Rubio in the head in midfielder, and the Whitecaps defender apologized, but Rubio took exception, lashed out and hit Henry across the face. Rubio was issued a straight red card for his reaction. Five minutes later, Lass Bangoura hit what looked like the winner for Vancouver, but the goal was called off after a Video Review, for an offside in the buildup.
But Whitecaps substitute Andy Rose had the last word, taking a late run into the box to latch onto Bangoura's deflected pass and sliding through the defense to win the game for the visitors.
Goals
- 16' – VAN – Fredy Montero
- 26' – VAN – Lucas Venuto
- 38' – COL – Kei Kamara (PK) | WATCH
- 53' – COL – Kei Kamara (PK) | WATCH
- 87' – VAN – Andy Rose
Three Things
- THE BIG PICTURE: The Whitecaps entered the match knowing they could grab their first away win under Marc Dos Santos, and while they floundered in the middle, they found a way to win. For Colorado, the midweek change in manager was unlikely to work miracles, and the sluggish start and late capitulation are concerns moving forward. They can, however, take some heart from the fight back to get back into the game.
Next Up
- COL: Saturday, May 11 vs Real Salt Lake (7 PM MT | MLS LIVE — Full TV & streaming info)
