After an up and down start under first year head coach Oscar Pareja, Colorado has turned a corner of late. Here are a few things to look for from D.C. United's Wednesday night opponent.
IN ATTACK
Colorado's fluid style makes for a dangerousand unpredictable forward push, but injuries have hit the Rapids' attackhard. First Conor Casey and nowOmar Cummings have missed time with ailments, as Oscar Pareja has been unableto pair his two most dangerous forwards together.
The visitors' midfield has a little bit ofeverything and the freedom to mix it up. Operating on the left edge of a compact diamond, Jaime Castrillon hasthe skill set of a traditional 'Number 10' but gets the space of a winger to useit. Argentine Martin Rivero is acrafty playmaker who - after struggling to adjust to the physical nature of MLS- now has a goal and two assists in his last three matches.
The Rapids are especially proficient on cornerkicks, and D.C. will do well to limit service from the wings in general. In recent contests against both Dallasand New England, Colorado won multiple free headers from corners including aCastrillon goal against the Revolution.
IN DEFENSE
Colorado has an aggressive defense, and as agroup press as high up field as anyone in Major League Soccer. This leaves little space in midfieldbut does present some opportunities to get in behind the Rapids' backfour.
Jeff Larentowicz anchors Colorado's defensive effortin midfield and his match-up with Dwayne De Rosario should be a joy towatch. The 28-year-old covers alot of ground, and if D.C. can lure him out of the middle by breaking Coloradodown elsewhere it should open things up for the reigning MVP.
In recent contests, opposing outside backs havecreated issues for Colorado when pressing forward. New England's Chris Tierney and Kevin Alston each created abevy of chances in an early May showdown between the Revs and Rapids. D.C.'s perimeter defenders have been getting forward a lot of late andmight find success if they continue the trend.
