After nearly a month since their last game, the Rapids are ready to return to play this Saturday on their home turf against Real Salt Lake. Since departing the MLS is Back Tournament, the side has been training in Denver with an eye toward regular season matches returning.
“I feel like we learned a lot about ourselves," head coach Robin Fraser said following the tournament. "I look at things where if we get better and sharper at, we’ll be a lot more dangerous. There are things that have come out of this that we certainly think we can make tangible gains at.”
Here are three keys to keep in mind going into Saturday's clash.
1. Younes Namli’s versatility provides options in the attack.
Prior to the MLS is Back Tournament, Namli was featured exclusively in an attacking center midfield, true number 10 role, which led to him scoring in his home debut. During the tournament, his range was brought to the forefront when Namli slid out wide to the wing against Sporting Kansas City and Minnesota. This switch allowed him more time on the ball, a fact which allowed the gifted dribbler to impact the game in a different way. Although he didn't appear on the scoresheet, he proved he can have an impact in that role.
This versatility presents the Rapids a great opportunity to diversify their attack depending on what the opposing team presents or based on what combination they are looking to put forward. One of the most skilled players on your team being able to provide that kind of versatility should prove to be an asset.
This could also provide Namli with the jumpstart he needs. He has one goal through the first five games, and a player of his caliber finding a rhythm would take this team to the next level.
2. Look for Jonathan Lewis to continue to make an impact.
Jonathan Lewis’ effect through five games in 2020 has been undeniable and has reportedly drawn interest from overseas. He leads the team in scoring with three goals in a mere 74 minutes played. This has him averaging 3.65 goals every 90 minutes, which is by far the highest average in MLS among players with three plus goals this season. He is also the league-leader in goals among players without a start.
“His effect has been remarkable,” Fraser said. “Every time he comes on, he’s involved in a number of attacks. Certainly has scored some really important goals for us. His work rate has been great.”
So what’s next for Lewis? Whether in a starting or sub role, it's safe to say he'll have an impact over the next six matches. With the condensed schedule, it's also likely his minutes will increase. While a goal approximately every 25 minutes would be almost impossible to sustain as he gets more time, it’s an exciting prospect to think of what the 23-year-old can continue to do as games return.
3. Wildcard: Braian Galván.
Galván joined the Rapids in July and played only one minute in the MLS is Back Tournament, so the impact he’ll have on his new side is still unknown. It's a safe bet that the past two months, with only three games and countless training sessions, have been incredibly beneficial in helping the Argentine get settled in his new surroundings on and off the field.
There's no doubt that Rapids fans are eager to see what Galván can do, and, like several other players, the condensed schedule should allow for a potential to see increased minutes. Galván is a skilled, young talent and other teams will have limited film on him. This should work to the creative player's advantage in his first few appearances, whether it be a start or off the bench, if the Rapids are in need of a goal.
