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Akpan strike provides tie
Andre Akpan lines up a shot against the Chicago Fire. Akpan's first MLS goal in his first MLS start brought the Rapids back for a 1-1 tie. (Photograph by Joel Baud/ColoradoSoccerNow.com)
After a tumultuous eight days centered on the suspension of midfielder Brian Mullan, the Colorado Rapids finally got back to action on Saturday night.
And for awhile, it appeared that the team was still in the same funk that characterized three straight shutout losses. The Chicago Fire, who had won only once in the season’s first six games, scored first. Dominic Oduro provided the cross and Marco Pappa provided the clinical finish in the 43rd minute.
The goal came despite the Rapids controlling long periods of play in the first half. This control continued in the second half as the Rapids finally found an equalizer. Second-year player Andre Akpan, in his first start, latched on to a through ball from Omar Cummings. Akpan rifled a shot through the hands of John Conway for his first MLS career goal. The goal also ended 319 scoreless minutes for the Rapids.
While fending off Chicago counterattacks, the Rapids nearly grabbed a late winner as Drew Moor’s header off a Jamie Smith cross just missed wide.
Missing Forwards: Akpan started in place of Caleb Folan, who is nursing a strained quadriceps muscle. Forwards Conor Casey and Quincy Amarikwa were also unavailable due to injuries.
Sanna’s Chance: Sanna Nyassi earned the start in place of the suspended Mullan. Nyassi played 89 minutes before giving way to Ross LaBauex. Mullan will be out until June 26.
Yellow Fellows: Center backs Tyrone Marshall and Moor each picked up yellow cards in the draw. It was the second of the season for both players. The Rapids have had at least one player pick up a yellow card in each of the seven matches this season.
Records: Colorado improved to 3-3-1 (10 points) with the win. Chicago moved to 1-3-3 (six points).
Next Up: The Rapids face a busy road schedule to start May. Colorado meets the Dynamo in Houston at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, followed by a Saturday match at New England. The Rapids finish the road swing by visiting D.C. United on May 14.
The Rapids finally return home to face Toronto FC on May 22 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.
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