Game Story: Rapids finish with seven shots, one on target in frustrating afternoon by BrendanPloen
The Mexican star and 2019 MLS MVP singlehandedly gave the Colorado Rapids a lot to think about as Vela scored all three goals in LAFC’s 3-0 win over the Rapids on Saturday afternoon in Los Angeles.
“We know they’re a pressing team and I thought at times we moved the ball well,” captain Jack Price said. “It was just that final cross or final pass that we didn’t have. They’re a good side and they executed better than we did in the final third. Going forward we have to be more ruthless, decisive with what action we’re going to take and what play we’re going to go after. Overall, we probably didn’t do enough as a team to create chances today.
Between the two, Kaye struggled to connect two key passes and turned the ball over a few too many times. Meanwhile, Acosta made his old club pay. Four passes after a bad Rapids turnover in their defensive third, Acosta drove to the byline and crossed in a ball which hit off Lalas Abubakar’s arm. Carlos Vela converted and sent Yarbrough the wrong way to make it 1-0 in the 29th minute.
The Rapids’ attack looked dull in comparison to last year and it was clear that not starting Rubio or Barrios in an effort to retain a more defensive shape did not pan out well in the first half.