Having won three games in a row, the Rapids’ USL affiliate, Charlotte Independence, are now without a win in three after back-to-back ties.
On-loan Rapids goalkeeper Andrew Dysktra put into his net with 11 minutes remaining at lowly Atlanta United 2 last Wednesday for a 1-1 scoreline. Three days later, the Independence came back to level at home to Charleston Battery in another 1-1 draw.
Dykstra went the distance in both games, while homegrown defender Sam Vines played in Atlanta but was an unused substitute in the match with the Battery. Ricardo Perez was on the bench for both encounters.
Mike Jeffries’ team sit fifth in the Eastern Conference, with a 6-4-4 record. They are two points behind Louisville City FC, in second, but just three points ahead of Indy Eleven, who sit one spot outside the playoff places.
The next game for Charlotte Independence is a trip to Richmond Kickers this Saturday. Richmond have lost five of the last six.
Sam Hamiltonplayed the entire game for Colorado Springs Switchbacks in a comfortable 4-1 win at Portland Timbers 2 on Saturday. This was only a second road win for Steve Trittschuh’s side, and a first win in three.
The Switchbacks’ 6-8-2 record is good enough to occupy the last playoff place in the Western Conference. They are home to Fresno FC on Saturday. Fresno sit one point and three places below them.
Phoenix Rising FC have climbed to second in the Western Conference after successive shutout successes. They won 4-0 at home to Las Vegas Lights last Wednesday, before overcoming Tulsa Roughnecks FC 3-0 on Saturday, also at Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex. Mike da Fonte completed both matches.
Phoenix, who have not conceded a goal in the last three games, head to Rio Grande Valley FC on Saturday. A win would take them top of the standings on goal difference, as current leaders Real Monarchs SLC are without a game this weekend.
