Rapids concede three goals in loss to Portland
The Colorado Rapids (2-2-1) were embarrassed 3-0 by the Portland Timbers (2-1-2) on Saturday night. The Burgundy Boys never got their offense going, and the Timbers took advantage of Colorado’s mistake.
The Rapids were without their starting goalkeeper Zack Steffen due to his Nations League call up for the USA. Stepping in for Steffen was homegrown talent Adam Beaudry. Saturday night was the keeper's first home start.
The first half of play was even for both teams, both defenses were frustrating their opponents. Colorado captain Keegan Rosenberry and his defense stood strong and did not allow their goalie to be tested for 45 minutes.
With no clear chances for the Rapids’ offense, winger Kevin Cabral wreaked havoc on his side of the pitch. Cabral was constantly winning one-on-ones against the Portland backline.
In the first minute of first half stoppage time, Colorado was reduced to 10 men after an injury to Cabral. The Timbers immediately took advantage of the handicapped Rapids. Portland defender David Da Costa sent in a cross in front of the goal, which Colorado midfielder Josh Atencio accidentally backheeled into the net to give the Timbers a lead right before halftime.
Rose City kept their foot on the gas early in the second half. Portland winger Antony shot a bouncing ball to the bottom left corner of the net to extend the lead to two only three minutes into the half. Four of the Brazilian’s eight goals since the start of last year have been against the Rapids.
Colorado was desperate for a goal, but the Timbers’ defense wouldn't budge. Rose City only allowed two shots on target, and neither challenged keeper James Pantemis.
“It comes down to decisive moments… we had so many little moments that could have turned into chances,” Colorado Rapids head coach Chris Armas said after the game. “ We just weren’t sharp enough.”
In the 75th minute, Portland forward Kevin Kelsy ended any hope of a comeback after he tapped in the Timber’s third goal.
Through five games the Rapids have conceded three goals twice, which was a recurring problem in Colorado’s last 10 games of the 2024 season.
“I think the right things were there, we’re doing the right things. I think it’ll come,” Colorado Rapids defender Reggie Cannon said. “It's obviously frustrating to lose 3 nil.”
The Rapids will host Charlotte FC Saturday at 2:30 p.m. Mountain Time. The game can be streamed on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.