Article Contributed on: 2/24/2007 4:34:52 PM
Hello Fans!
We have been busy since the last time I wrote. We have played two games against Division 2 teams in Mexico, with a hard double session in between games.
Our 2nd game on the trip was against Tuzos Cuahtitlan. The game consisted of two 40 min halves with everyone playing one of the halves. Herculez got us on the board with a great strike early in the game. The Mexican side answered a few minutes later with a long distance strike. Later in the half Herculez would strike again for his second of the match. Then in the second half I would head in a goal of a Nico Colaluca corner. The game became chippy towards the end with each team getting in hard and chippy tackles. It was a good win for the team and everyone was pleased afterwards.
Friday would be one of the harder days we have had. In the morning session we were tested on our jumping vertical, to which Bouna took the top honor, should really be no surprise there as he is a freak of nature. While the testing was going on the rest of the team was getting a light training session in. The afternoon was run mostly by Hector. Which meant a good run and then when that was finished, we had some running with the ball (which in the soccer world is known as hidden fitness). We ended with 7 v 7 short sided game. Finally, there was a little "cross bar" competition for the rookies and trialist. After about 10 mins of the competition we were down to two trailist. It was taking a little longer than expected so the loser was decided by who could come the closets to the cross bar. The loser, Angel Sosa, would have to wear a lovely pink/red button down shirt the next day, provided by Mr. Kyle Beckerman.
Today´s game consisted of two 30 min halves. It was a good game and at half time the score was 0-0 with the Rapids having some quality opportunities. Rookie John DiRaimondo would find the back of the net in the second half to give the Rapids the 1-0 victory. The legs are soar and guys are tired. Tomorrow's day off is coming at a perfect time.
We are leaving tomorrow afternoon to Mexico City. On Monday we will play Cruz Azul. Then we will have a training session at their complex on Tuesday and then we back in the good ol USA on Wednesday.
Pachuca has been great to us, the hotel, training facilities and people have been top notch. Even the food is good, although you know its about time to leave when guys are eating Frosted Flakes for dinner.
Hope everyone is doing well back in Colorado and check back next week to see how we fair against Cruz Azul.