Sunday's road clash with reigning MLS Cup champions LAFC marks the first regular-season game for the Rapids since July 15 as league play paused for the inaugural Leagues Cup, which pitted MLS against Liga MX, in late July into August. We spoke with Head Coach Robin Fraser and midfielder Connor Ronan about takeaways from the break, new players gained during the transfer window and keys to success against LAFC.
On how the team has benefitted from the break in MLS action
RF: Trainings have been good. We're getting guys healthy, and we've incorporated some new players. So it's actually been a good thing for us to take a break from playing games and really get to work on a few things and incorporate or reincorporate players.
CR: I think these little breaks in the season can be helpful, especially when we've not had a great season. We're not on a good run, particularly at the minute. So I think these little breaks give us time to really nail things down on the training pitch, and it gives a lot more confidence going into the next game.
On how new players, Rafael Navarro and Sidnei Tavares, have integrated with the team
RF: They both seem to be doing really well. Adjusting to the altitude is a constant for any new person, and they’ve both had their struggles with that, but they're clearly getting over it. And in terms of gaining understanding of their teammates, it's really been beneficial.
CR: It's always tough with the altitude coming in and you've got that adaptation period. They've gelled in really well. I think the little break in games helps as well. It gives us that extra chance to nail things down with them on the pitch as well. They’ve fitted in seamlessly and it's been all good so far.
On the keys to a favorable result against LAFC
RF: They're very good team, obviously, and we have to be really good with our decision making and our recognition of opportunities that present themselves. It's things we've been working on and things we'll continue to work on for the next couple of days.
CR: We've just got to go back to basics and really be solid defensively. They're a really good attacking team, so I think if we can just shut them out and give ourselves a chance going forwards then we've got a chance of winning the game.
