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The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC host the Los Angeles Galaxy II this Friday evening at Weidner Field on Super Hero Night that includes a post-match fireworks show presented by Children’s Hospital Colorado, Colorado Springs.

Currently in 6th place in the USL’s Western Conference, the Switchbacks have taken nine points from their last twelve available while scoring six goals in their most recent two matches at Weidner Field.  A 2-0 loss in Sandy, Utah on Saturday evening to current Western Conference table-toppers Real Monarchs SLC prevented the Switchbacks from jumping to 4th place.

“It was unfortunate we didn’t win versus the Monarchs; it means we want to bounce-back and win on Friday,” said Kevaughn Frater, who leads the Switchbacks in goals with 8.  “Knowing I’ve scored against LA before gives me confidence.  I’m motivated to show my talent and most importantly to help the team get another three points.  It’s big for us to be home – we always put on a show in front of our fans.”

A pair of headers from Frater sealed all three points for the Switchbacks against Los Dos on June 10th in Carson, California, as the Jamaican hitman scored the winner just before the start of extra-time.  An 80th minute Justin Dhillon near-post strike seemed destined to end the match in a draw before Frater out-leaped Galaxy II goalkeeper Bennett Sneddon and gave the Switchbacks a priceless road victory.  

“Frater has been dangerous,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “As we saw in Salt Lake, teams are targeting him now.  Shane [Malcolm], Luke [Vercollone], and Masta [Kacher] have all been playing really well…The whole team has really been doing good things.  We have to keep the home momentum going on Friday and do what we’ve all been doing so well.  It’s good to be home – Friday night will be good for us.”

In addition to being back in Colorado Springs, another boost for the Switchbacks will be the return of veteran striker Aaron King.  King missed the Switchbacks win in Orange County on August 8th to attend the birth of his second child, although he did feature off the bench in the aforementioned loss to the Real Monarchs.  “It feels like a weight’s been lifted off my shoulders!  I want to play well for the club and for my family,” said King.  “Of course I’ve got to give a shout out to my oldest daughter, Kameron.  She’s a big sister now!  Kai, the youngest, is doing great and so is my wife Kelsey.  It’s been an emotional couple weeks, but I’m ready for Friday and to get the win!  LA always try to bring their strongest team versus us – all the MLS 2 teams do.  They’ll come out for revenge after earlier this year.  I’m looking forward to seeing what we’re going to bring.”

The Galaxy II have endured a difficult 2017 USL season.  Currently in thirteenth place, Los Dos have a mighty task on their hands if they’re to clinch a fourth consecutive playoff place.  Off since an August 5th loss to Phoenix Rising FC in Carson, California, the Galaxy II will have a deep roster from which to choose Friday’s starting XI as their MLS parent club, the Los Angeles Galaxy, will not play until an August 23rd showdown with the Columbus Crew in Ohio.  MLS’ Galaxy are themselves struggling to secure a 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs berth – Sigi Schmid’s team are in 9th place at the time of writing, nine points behind the San Jose Earthquakes who occupy the final playoff position.   

“They’re one of the teams where we have to wait to see who’s coming to face us,” said Trittschuh.  “Their first team doesn’t play this weekend so it’s hard to prepare for LA – they’ve been switching players and even their system.  On my board I’ve got 20-plus guys who could play for LA against us.  We’ve been playing well the last four games so we won’t worry about the other team, just ourselves – it’s what we’ve been telling the players all season.”  

Rancho Santa Margarita native Justin Dhillion leads the Galaxy II in goals with 6, while tricky winger Adrian Vera has scored five times in 2017.  Costa Rican striker Ariel Lassiter remains one of the most dangerous players in the Galaxy organization, although his involvement on Friday is uncertain as he’s spent time this season on the MLS roster and may well be rested for the crucial trip to Columbus.  

Former UC Santa Barbara Gaucho midfielder Ryo Fujii is one of the first names on Head Coach Mike Muñoz’s team sheet, while impressive performances from striker Ethan Zubak have seen the nineteen year old from Corona, California called-up to the Under-19 United States national team.

“LA won’t be happy that we beat them at their home so they’ll be looking for redemption,” said winger Shane Malcolm.  “They’ll have an older team this time around with more experience, so it should make for a good game.  It’s always amazing to play in front of our home fans at Weidner Field.  The atmosphere is hard for any team to play against us.  We haven’t been shut-out at home, so hopefully, we score and the fans go home happy.”

Tuesday morning saw Switchbacks midfielder Luke Vercollone named to the USL Team of the Week seven days after he opened the scoring in the Switchbacks’ rampant 4-0 victory over Orange County SC in Irvine, California.  “It feels good – I’m thankful, honored, and blessed,” said Vercollone.  “LA are going to fight.  They always play well against us.  It’s a good rivalry with them and I expect a tough game, but hopefully, we get a win at home.”

“LA will want to prove they can play – they’ll try to beat us, especially after we beat them away,” said defender Diego Gutierrez.  “Us having the advantage in altitude isn’t that big, but it means a lot to play in front of our fans and show what we’ve got.”

Following Friday’s match, the Switchbacks will begin their longest break of 2017.  September 2nd will see Steve Trittschuh’s men make their way to Papa Murphy’s Park to face Sacramento Republic before returning to Weidner Field a week later for the visit of Phoenix Rising FC.  

“Why do it now?  It makes no sense,” said Trittschuh.  “We needed the break earlier in the season when we were playing two games almost every week.  But we’ll deal with it and keep working on being at our best.  We’ll get some guys back into the team after the break and then we’ll go on a tough trip to Sacramento looking to continue our push.”  

“After three games in seven days I’m looking forward to the chance to rest and come back refreshed and make a push for the playoffs – but we won’t look past Friday,” insisted Shane Malcolm.  “Our ultimate goal is to get home-field advantage in the playoffs and I think we can make a strong playoff push; starting against LA on Friday.”

TIckets for Friday's match with post-match fireworks start at just $12 and are available here.

 

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC host the Los Angeles Galaxy II this Friday evening at Weidner Field on Super Hero Night that includes a post-match fireworks show presented by Children’s Hospital Colorado, Colorado Springs.

Currently in 6th place in the USL’s Western Conference, the Switchbacks have taken nine points from their last twelve available while scoring six goals in their most recent two matches at Weidner Field.  A 2-0 loss in Sandy, Utah on Saturday evening to current Western Conference table-toppers Real Monarchs SLC prevented the Switchbacks from jumping to 4th place.

“It was unfortunate we didn’t win versus the Monarchs; it means we want to bounce-back and win on Friday,” said Kevaughn Frater, who leads the Switchbacks in goals with 8.  “Knowing I’ve scored against LA before gives me confidence.  I’m motivated to show my talent and most importantly to help the team get another three points.  It’s big for us to be home – we always put on a show in front of our fans.”

A pair of headers from Frater sealed all three points for the Switchbacks against Los Dos on June 10th in Carson, California, as the Jamaican hitman scored the winner just before the start of extra-time.  An 80th minute Justin Dhillon near-post strike seemed destined to end the match in a draw before Frater out-leaped Galaxy II goalkeeper Bennett Sneddon and gave the Switchbacks a priceless road victory.  

“Frater has been dangerous,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “As we saw in Salt Lake, teams are targeting him now.  Shane [Malcolm], Luke [Vercollone], and Masta [Kacher] have all been playing really well…The whole team has really been doing good things.  We have to keep the home momentum going on Friday and do what we’ve all been doing so well.  It’s good to be home – Friday night will be good for us.”

In addition to being back in Colorado Springs, another boost for the Switchbacks will be the return of veteran striker Aaron King.  King missed the Switchbacks win in Orange County on August 8th to attend the birth of his second child, although he did feature off the bench in the aforementioned loss to the Real Monarchs.  “It feels like a weight’s been lifted off my shoulders!  I want to play well for the club and for my family,” said King.  “Of course I’ve got to give a shout out to my oldest daughter, Kameron.  She’s a big sister now!  Kai, the youngest, is doing great and so is my wife Kelsey.  It’s been an emotional couple weeks, but I’m ready for Friday and to get the win!  LA always try to bring their strongest team versus us – all the MLS 2 teams do.  They’ll come out for revenge after earlier this year.  I’m looking forward to seeing what we’re going to bring.”

The Galaxy II have endured a difficult 2017 USL season.  Currently in thirteenth place, Los Dos have a mighty task on their hands if they’re to clinch a fourth consecutive playoff place.  Off since an August 5th loss to Phoenix Rising FC in Carson, California, the Galaxy II will have a deep roster from which to choose Friday’s starting XI as their MLS parent club, the Los Angeles Galaxy, will not play until an August 23rd showdown with the Columbus Crew in Ohio.  MLS’ Galaxy are themselves struggling to secure a 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs berth – Sigi Schmid’s team are in 9th place at the time of writing, nine points behind the San Jose Earthquakes who occupy the final playoff position.   

“They’re one of the teams where we have to wait to see who’s coming to face us,” said Trittschuh.  “Their first team doesn’t play this weekend so it’s hard to prepare for LA – they’ve been switching players and even their system.  On my board I’ve got 20-plus guys who could play for LA against us.  We’ve been playing well the last four games so we won’t worry about the other team, just ourselves – it’s what we’ve been telling the players all season.”  

Rancho Santa Margarita native Justin Dhillion leads the Galaxy II in goals with 6, while tricky winger Adrian Vera has scored five times in 2017.  Costa Rican striker Ariel Lassiter remains one of the most dangerous players in the Galaxy organization, although his involvement on Friday is uncertain as he’s spent time this season on the MLS roster and may well be rested for the crucial trip to Columbus.  

Former UC Santa Barbara Gaucho midfielder Ryo Fujii is one of the first names on Head Coach Mike Muñoz’s team sheet, while impressive performances from striker Ethan Zubak have seen the nineteen year old from Corona, California called-up to the Under-19 United States national team.

“LA won’t be happy that we beat them at their home so they’ll be looking for redemption,” said winger Shane Malcolm.  “They’ll have an older team this time around with more experience, so it should make for a good game.  It’s always amazing to play in front of our home fans at Weidner Field.  The atmosphere is hard for any team to play against us.  We haven’t been shut-out at home, so hopefully, we score and the fans go home happy.”

Tuesday morning saw Switchbacks midfielder Luke Vercollone named to the USL Team of the Week seven days after he opened the scoring in the Switchbacks’ rampant 4-0 victory over Orange County SC in Irvine, California.  “It feels good – I’m thankful, honored, and blessed,” said Vercollone.  “LA are going to fight.  They always play well against us.  It’s a good rivalry with them and I expect a tough game, but hopefully, we get a win at home.”

“LA will want to prove they can play – they’ll try to beat us, especially after we beat them away,” said defender Diego Gutierrez.  “Us having the advantage in altitude isn’t that big, but it means a lot to play in front of our fans and show what we’ve got.”

Following Friday’s match, the Switchbacks will begin their longest break of 2017.  September 2nd will see Steve Trittschuh’s men make their way to Papa Murphy’s Park to face Sacramento Republic before returning to Weidner Field a week later for the visit of Phoenix Rising FC.  

“Why do it now?  It makes no sense,” said Trittschuh.  “We needed the break earlier in the season when we were playing two games almost every week.  But we’ll deal with it and keep working on being at our best.  We’ll get some guys back into the team after the break and then we’ll go on a tough trip to Sacramento looking to continue our push.”  

“After three games in seven days I’m looking forward to the chance to rest and come back refreshed and make a push for the playoffs – but we won’t look past Friday,” insisted Shane Malcolm.  “Our ultimate goal is to get home-field advantage in the playoffs and I think we can make a strong playoff push; starting against LA on Friday.”

TIckets for Friday’s match with post-match fireworks start at just $12 and are available here.

 

Hotter than a fox in a forest fire, the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC make their way to Sandy, Utah this Saturday evening to face current USL Western Conference leaders, Real Monarchs SLC.  

A 4-0 win against Orange County SC on Tuesday night at Orange County Great Park in Irvine, California was the second consecutive four-goal output by the Switchbacks – on August 5th Steve Trittschuh’s men defeated the Portland Timbers 2 by 4-1 at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs.  “We discovered how we have to play and we want to keep that rolling,” said Trittschuh from Los Angeles on Wednesday.  “There’s no reason to change things on Saturday.  We’ve been consistent in our lineup and our play – the guys believe in what we’re trying to do and there’s no secret to it.  We’re going to keep at it and keep pressing forward.”

One enforced change to the Switchbacks’ lineup on Saturday in Utah will be the loss of midfielder Davy Armstrong.  Aaron King, who didn’t travel to Southern California, will join his teammates on the other side of the Rocky Mountains after attending the birth of his second child.  “Kingy’s wife had a baby – a little baby girl – so he missed the OC game but he’ll meet us in Salt Lake because we need an extra player because Davy [Armstrong] picked up a little injury last night,” confirmed Trittschuh.  “Defensively we had our best performance of the year last night.  We defended as a team – I’m very proud of the guys – and we’ll need that defensive effort in Salt Lake.”

The Real Monarchs fell to a 2-0 defeat at Taft Stadium in Oklahoma City last Saturday evening behind a brace from OKC Energy midfielder Alex Dixon.  Dixon’s exploits earned the Texas native a starting place on the USL Team of the Week, where he joins Switchbacks goalkeeper Moise Pouaty.  Pouaty recorded two penalty-kick saves in the victory over the Portland Timbers at Weidner Field and was highly impressive again last night in the shutout win over Orange County.

Saturday will see the Real Monarchs without one of their most dangerous attacking players as Colombian midfielder Sebastián Velásquez picked up an automatic suspension after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season in the loss to the OKC Energy.  Velásquez leads the Monarchs in assists and is seventh in minutes played.  “Velasquez is one of the players that makes their team run,” said Trittschuh.  “They’ll find someone to step in for him – they have a lot of depth.  The Monarchs are on a bit of a lull right now – a loss and a draw in their last two – but we know their quality.”

A huge part of that quality lies in the Monarchs’ star striker, and former Switchback, Chandler Hoffman.  Far and away the team leader in goals with 13, Hoffman’s goal-tally has the Birmingham, Alabama native sitting in third place in the USL’s striking chart.  “He’s a goal scorer.  He does his job and he does it really well,” said Switchbacks captain Rony Argueta.  “We have to take care of him and the guys in the center of the park for the Monarchs.  Last night was huge for us.  It was a big confidence boost and we need to take that into a tough game on Saturday.  We’re excited because we’ve got good momentum.  The guys are excited and motivated for a playoff spot, so we’ll keep at it and keep working.”

In charge of play for the Real Monarchs are talented players like Nick Besler, Charlie Adams, Andrew Brody and James Moberg.  Long known as a possession-first club in the direct mold of their MLS affiliate Real Salt Lake, Steve Trittschuh believes this season has seen the Monarchs produce a more straightforward attacking threat: “Salt Lake are a different team now.  They’re more direct at times; they’ll bypass the midfield and play straight up-top if they have to.  They’re a different team but we’re not the same team from the first time we went there this season and the guys are full of confidence after last night.”

The Switchbacks fell 5-2 at Rio Tinto Stadium on May 20th behind braces from both Hoffman and Velásquez.  Josh Suggs and Kevaughn Frater accounted for the Switchbacks’ goals in a wild match that saw Monarchs defender Michael Gallagher sent off.  The Switchbacks defeated their Rocky Mountain rivals on April 15th at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs after two goals inside the first twenty minutes from Masta Kacher and Aaron King.  

“Of course last night gave us confidence,” said winger Kacher who scored the third Switchbacks goal against OC after a delightful piece of build-up play from Shane Malcolm.  “We know what to do and how hard-working it takes to win a game away.  I can tell you the mentality has changed a lot.  We respect the Monarchs – they are a really great team, but it comes down to us again.  We work, we play our game, and we focus on what we can do and stop looking too much at the opposition.”

Saturday’s match will bring a close to the three-match regular season set between the two USL clubs that call the Rocky Mountains home.  A playoff rematch remains a possibility as the victory in Orange County has propelled the Switchbacks into 5th place in the Western Conference – tied on points with Reno 1868 FC but trailing the USL debutants on goal difference.  

“We are excited about the win,” said Vercollone when asked about the 4-0 result in Orange County.  “It was a great overall team performance against OC.  To get the shutout away from home and to be able to create numerous opportunities gives us loads of confidence heading into Salt Lake.  We need to be happy, but not satisfied; take care of our recovery and focus on the Monarchs.”

Vercollone and the Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field on Friday, August 18th for a 7 pm matchup with the Los Angeles Galaxy II on Super Hero Night presented by Children's Hospital Colorado, Colorado Springs.  A fireworks show will follow the match as the Switchbacks look to complete the season sweep over Los Dos, having previously defeated the team from Carson, California 2-1 on June 10th in The Golden State.   Tickets start at just $12 and are available here.

Hotter than a fox in a forest fire, the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC make their way to Sandy, Utah this Saturday evening to face current USL Western Conference leaders, Real Monarchs SLC.  

A 4-0 win against Orange County SC on Tuesday night at Orange County Great Park in Irvine, California was the second consecutive four-goal output by the Switchbacks – on August 5th Steve Trittschuh’s men defeated the Portland Timbers 2 by 4-1 at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs.  “We discovered how we have to play and we want to keep that rolling,” said Trittschuh from Los Angeles on Wednesday.  “There’s no reason to change things on Saturday.  We’ve been consistent in our lineup and our play – the guys believe in what we’re trying to do and there’s no secret to it.  We’re going to keep at it and keep pressing forward.”

One enforced change to the Switchbacks’ lineup on Saturday in Utah will be the loss of midfielder Davy Armstrong.  Aaron King, who didn’t travel to Southern California, will join his teammates on the other side of the Rocky Mountains after attending the birth of his second child.  “Kingy’s wife had a baby – a little baby girl – so he missed the OC game but he’ll meet us in Salt Lake because we need an extra player because Davy [Armstrong] picked up a little injury last night,” confirmed Trittschuh.  “Defensively we had our best performance of the year last night.  We defended as a team – I’m very proud of the guys – and we’ll need that defensive effort in Salt Lake.”

The Real Monarchs fell to a 2-0 defeat at Taft Stadium in Oklahoma City last Saturday evening behind a brace from OKC Energy midfielder Alex Dixon.  Dixon’s exploits earned the Texas native a starting place on the USL Team of the Week, where he joins Switchbacks goalkeeper Moise Pouaty.  Pouaty recorded two penalty-kick saves in the victory over the Portland Timbers at Weidner Field and was highly impressive again last night in the shutout win over Orange County.

Saturday will see the Real Monarchs without one of their most dangerous attacking players as Colombian midfielder Sebastián Velásquez picked up an automatic suspension after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season in the loss to the OKC Energy.  Velásquez leads the Monarchs in assists and is seventh in minutes played.  “Velasquez is one of the players that makes their team run,” said Trittschuh.  “They’ll find someone to step in for him – they have a lot of depth.  The Monarchs are on a bit of a lull right now – a loss and a draw in their last two – but we know their quality.”

A huge part of that quality lies in the Monarchs’ star striker, and former Switchback, Chandler Hoffman.  Far and away the team leader in goals with 13, Hoffman’s goal-tally has the Birmingham, Alabama native sitting in third place in the USL’s striking chart.  “He’s a goal scorer.  He does his job and he does it really well,” said Switchbacks captain Rony Argueta.  “We have to take care of him and the guys in the center of the park for the Monarchs.  Last night was huge for us.  It was a big confidence boost and we need to take that into a tough game on Saturday.  We’re excited because we’ve got good momentum.  The guys are excited and motivated for a playoff spot, so we’ll keep at it and keep working.”

In charge of play for the Real Monarchs are talented players like Nick Besler, Charlie Adams, Andrew Brody and James Moberg.  Long known as a possession-first club in the direct mold of their MLS affiliate Real Salt Lake, Steve Trittschuh believes this season has seen the Monarchs produce a more straightforward attacking threat: “Salt Lake are a different team now.  They’re more direct at times; they’ll bypass the midfield and play straight up-top if they have to.  They’re a different team but we’re not the same team from the first time we went there this season and the guys are full of confidence after last night.”

The Switchbacks fell 5-2 at Rio Tinto Stadium on May 20th behind braces from both Hoffman and Velásquez.  Josh Suggs and Kevaughn Frater accounted for the Switchbacks’ goals in a wild match that saw Monarchs defender Michael Gallagher sent off.  The Switchbacks defeated their Rocky Mountain rivals on April 15th at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs after two goals inside the first twenty minutes from Masta Kacher and Aaron King.  

“Of course last night gave us confidence,” said winger Kacher who scored the third Switchbacks goal against OC after a delightful piece of build-up play from Shane Malcolm.  “We know what to do and how hard-working it takes to win a game away.  I can tell you the mentality has changed a lot.  We respect the Monarchs – they are a really great team, but it comes down to us again.  We work, we play our game, and we focus on what we can do and stop looking too much at the opposition.”

Saturday’s match will bring a close to the three-match regular season set between the two USL clubs that call the Rocky Mountains home.  A playoff rematch remains a possibility as the victory in Orange County has propelled the Switchbacks into 5th place in the Western Conference – tied on points with Reno 1868 FC but trailing the USL debutants on goal difference.  

“We are excited about the win,” said Vercollone when asked about the 4-0 result in Orange County.  “It was a great overall team performance against OC.  To get the shutout away from home and to be able to create numerous opportunities gives us loads of confidence heading into Salt Lake.  We need to be happy, but not satisfied; take care of our recovery and focus on the Monarchs.”

Vercollone and the Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field on Friday, August 18th for a 7 pm matchup with the Los Angeles Galaxy II on Super Hero Night presented by Children’s Hospital Colorado, Colorado Springs.  A fireworks show will follow the match as the Switchbacks look to complete the season sweep over Los Dos, having previously defeated the team from Carson, California 2-1 on June 10th in The Golden State.   Tickets start at just $12 and are available here.

Back to winning ways, the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC host the Portland Timbers 2 this Saturday evening at Weidner Field where the first 500 fans will receive a Switchbacks backpack, courtesy of Colorado Technical University.  

A hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Seattle Sounders 2 last weekend helped maintain the Switchbacks’ current position inside the USL’s Western Conference playoff picture.  Shane Malcolm started the scoring against S2 after a brilliant piece of build-up play by Masta Kacher.

“It’s always a good feeling to score – at home or on the road,” said Malcolm.  “It gave me a bit of confidence so hopefully I can use that to leapfrog into this weekend’s game.  We don’t look at the fact Portland are struggling – they’re a good team and they move the ball really well.  We have to stay attentive defensively and at home, I’m sure we’ll score.”

The struggles of the Timbers 2 in 2017 are well documented.  With just 9 points, coming via two wins and three draws, T2 find themselves alone at the bottom of the USL’s Western Conference table.  T2 started the season with eight consecutive losses, but some of that hardship is lessened by the fact that the MLS’ Portland Timbers stand in 4th place at the time of writing in a bitterly close MLS Western Conference.  The first meeting of 2017 between T2 and the Switchbacks ended 0-0 at Providence Park in Portland, Oregon on May 10th.

“No!” interrupted Masta Kacher when asked about the struggles of the Timbers 2 this season.  “They’re a really good team.  The first game we defended a lot because they really pushed us.  It’s not about the opposition and where they stand, it’s about our mentality and how we play the game.  We must show our heart and fight.”

Kacher, who set up both Switchbacks goals in the win over the Seattle Sounders 2, was named a starter on the USL Team of the Week.  “It feels great to be on the Team of the Week, but most important is to help the team,” said Kacher.  “It’s good because I was able to help create two goals so that helps the team and that’s my focus.  Defensively, attacking, whatever – whatever helps us win.”  

Souring the victory over the Sounders 2 was a second half injury to right back, and Switchbacks joint goals-scored leader Jordan Burt.  “Jordan will be out for a minimum of eight weeks with the injury he sustained in the Seattle game,” confirmed Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “The field was too thick and it caught his foot.  It’s a big loss.  When you lose a starter with all the goals and quality he’s put in, it hurts.  I told the guys that it’s next-man-up time.  We have to keep playing the way we have and keep right back as an attacking position for us.”

Replacing Burt against S2 was Davy Armstrong, who has worked tirelessly this season to return to first-team action after being sidelined until last Saturday’s substitute appearance.  “It felt great to be out there – I wasn’t supposed to be back until the end of September,” said Armstrong.  “God has been looking out for me and he got me back early.  I’m so glad we got the win and I was able to help my teammates.  We’ve got to approach every game the same.  We’ve got to win here on out.  It’s going to be a battle this weekend and we know that.”

“Portland are a bit of a wild-card,” said midfielder Eddy Prugh.  “We don’t know who they’ll bring and what they’ll do, but they’ll be tough – they proved that this season against us.  They have an MLS game this weekend so maybe that changes things a bit for them.  We did what we’re trying to do against Seattle so we have to stick to the plan and carry it forward into this weekend.”

MLS’ Portland Timbers host the Los Angeles Galaxy at Providence Park in Portland this Sunday.  T2 will have a week off after Saturday’s contest in Colorado Springs before playing Sacramento Republic next Sunday, August 13th.   

“They’re a good team and they play a really good brand of soccer,” said Trittschuh about T2.  “We discovered last weekend how we have to play.  We have to press high on our opponents and we have to continue to play that way – especially at home in front of our fans and with the players we have.”

T2’s leader in games-played, goals, starts, and minutes-played, Bulgarian striker Villyan Bijev is without question T2’s most important player.  Once on the books of England’s Liverpool, Bijev made his way to the Pacific Northwest after a career that saw the rangy striker play in both Germany and his native Bulgaria.  Bijev was named to the USL All-League First Team after a 2016 season that saw him lead the USL with ten assists, in addition to scoring eight goals.  Bijev joins Masta Kacher as a starter on the USL Team of the Week after notching an 81st-minute winner against Rio Grande Valley FC at Providence Park in the Rose City last Saturday evening.  

“Bijev is their best player – he’s the one player we have to know where he is at all times,” said Trittschuh.  “He’s a young guy I like a lot who is striving for the next level.”  

Timbers 2 starting goalkeeper Kendall McIntosh was recognized as the USL Player of the Week after saving two penalties in the win against RGVFC.  The former Santa Clara University standout has now saved three PK’s in 2017.  Wade Hamilton started in goal in the May 10th 0-0 draw between T2 and the Switchbacks, although McIntosh is odds-on to start on Saturday evening at Weidner Field. 

Dangerous striker Russell Cicerone has become an impact-substitute this season for T2.  The Bloomfield Hills, Michigan native has shown signs of the class that led to finishing his career at the University of Buffalo with 42 goals and 22 assists in just 71 appearances.  Sierra Leone-born striker Augustine Williams is another dangerous youngster on T2’s books, while Pacific Northwest native Kyle Bjornethun has impressed in defense.  

From a Switchbacks perspective, Kevaughn Frater is eligible to return to the starting XI after missing out on the win against the Sounders 2 for yellow-card accumulation.  Numerous players are on hand to replace Jordan Burt after his injury, including the aforementioned Davy Armstrong, and Conner Bevans who has also seen time at wing back in 2017.  Regardless of personnel changes, Head Coach Trittschuh reiterated the mantra that began before the victory against the Sounders 2:  “We have to win.  We have to!  Keep winning and we’ll be able to hold off teams like Orange County and get ourselves where we need to be.  We have to win on Saturday.  Nothing else will do.”

Tickets for Saturday's match against Portland start at just $12 and are available here.

Back to winning ways, the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC host the Portland Timbers 2 this Saturday evening at Weidner Field where the first 500 fans will receive a Switchbacks backpack, courtesy of Colorado Technical University.  

A hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Seattle Sounders 2 last weekend helped maintain the Switchbacks’ current position inside the USL’s Western Conference playoff picture.  Shane Malcolm started the scoring against S2 after a brilliant piece of build-up play by Masta Kacher.

“It’s always a good feeling to score – at home or on the road,” said Malcolm.  “It gave me a bit of confidence so hopefully I can use that to leapfrog into this weekend’s game.  We don’t look at the fact Portland are struggling – they’re a good team and they move the ball really well.  We have to stay attentive defensively and at home, I’m sure we’ll score.”

The struggles of the Timbers 2 in 2017 are well documented.  With just 9 points, coming via two wins and three draws, T2 find themselves alone at the bottom of the USL’s Western Conference table.  T2 started the season with eight consecutive losses, but some of that hardship is lessened by the fact that the MLS’ Portland Timbers stand in 4th place at the time of writing in a bitterly close MLS Western Conference.  The first meeting of 2017 between T2 and the Switchbacks ended 0-0 at Providence Park in Portland, Oregon on May 10th.

“No!” interrupted Masta Kacher when asked about the struggles of the Timbers 2 this season.  “They’re a really good team.  The first game we defended a lot because they really pushed us.  It’s not about the opposition and where they stand, it’s about our mentality and how we play the game.  We must show our heart and fight.”

Kacher, who set up both Switchbacks goals in the win over the Seattle Sounders 2, was named a starter on the USL Team of the Week.  “It feels great to be on the Team of the Week, but most important is to help the team,” said Kacher.  “It’s good because I was able to help create two goals so that helps the team and that’s my focus.  Defensively, attacking, whatever – whatever helps us win.”  

Souring the victory over the Sounders 2 was a second half injury to right back, and Switchbacks joint goals-scored leader Jordan Burt.  “Jordan will be out for a minimum of eight weeks with the injury he sustained in the Seattle game,” confirmed Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “The field was too thick and it caught his foot.  It’s a big loss.  When you lose a starter with all the goals and quality he’s put in, it hurts.  I told the guys that it’s next-man-up time.  We have to keep playing the way we have and keep right back as an attacking position for us.”

Replacing Burt against S2 was Davy Armstrong, who has worked tirelessly this season to return to first-team action after being sidelined until last Saturday’s substitute appearance.  “It felt great to be out there – I wasn’t supposed to be back until the end of September,” said Armstrong.  “God has been looking out for me and he got me back early.  I’m so glad we got the win and I was able to help my teammates.  We’ve got to approach every game the same.  We’ve got to win here on out.  It’s going to be a battle this weekend and we know that.”

“Portland are a bit of a wild-card,” said midfielder Eddy Prugh.  “We don’t know who they’ll bring and what they’ll do, but they’ll be tough – they proved that this season against us.  They have an MLS game this weekend so maybe that changes things a bit for them.  We did what we’re trying to do against Seattle so we have to stick to the plan and carry it forward into this weekend.”

MLS’ Portland Timbers host the Los Angeles Galaxy at Providence Park in Portland this Sunday.  T2 will have a week off after Saturday’s contest in Colorado Springs before playing Sacramento Republic next Sunday, August 13th.   

“They’re a good team and they play a really good brand of soccer,” said Trittschuh about T2.  “We discovered last weekend how we have to play.  We have to press high on our opponents and we have to continue to play that way – especially at home in front of our fans and with the players we have.”

T2’s leader in games-played, goals, starts, and minutes-played, Bulgarian striker Villyan Bijev is without question T2’s most important player.  Once on the books of England’s Liverpool, Bijev made his way to the Pacific Northwest after a career that saw the rangy striker play in both Germany and his native Bulgaria.  Bijev was named to the USL All-League First Team after a 2016 season that saw him lead the USL with ten assists, in addition to scoring eight goals.  Bijev joins Masta Kacher as a starter on the USL Team of the Week after notching an 81st-minute winner against Rio Grande Valley FC at Providence Park in the Rose City last Saturday evening.  

“Bijev is their best player – he’s the one player we have to know where he is at all times,” said Trittschuh.  “He’s a young guy I like a lot who is striving for the next level.”  

Timbers 2 starting goalkeeper Kendall McIntosh was recognized as the USL Player of the Week after saving two penalties in the win against RGVFC.  The former Santa Clara University standout has now saved three PK’s in 2017.  Wade Hamilton started in goal in the May 10th 0-0 draw between T2 and the Switchbacks, although McIntosh is odds-on to start on Saturday evening at Weidner Field. 

Dangerous striker Russell Cicerone has become an impact-substitute this season for T2.  The Bloomfield Hills, Michigan native has shown signs of the class that led to finishing his career at the University of Buffalo with 42 goals and 22 assists in just 71 appearances.  Sierra Leone-born striker Augustine Williams is another dangerous youngster on T2’s books, while Pacific Northwest native Kyle Bjornethun has impressed in defense.  

From a Switchbacks perspective, Kevaughn Frater is eligible to return to the starting XI after missing out on the win against the Sounders 2 for yellow-card accumulation.  Numerous players are on hand to replace Jordan Burt after his injury, including the aforementioned Davy Armstrong, and Conner Bevans who has also seen time at wing back in 2017.  Regardless of personnel changes, Head Coach Trittschuh reiterated the mantra that began before the victory against the Sounders 2:  “We have to win.  We have to!  Keep winning and we’ll be able to hold off teams like Orange County and get ourselves where we need to be.  We have to win on Saturday.  Nothing else will do.”

Tickets for Saturday’s match against Portland start at just $12 and are available here.

Two teams desperate for three points square off this Saturday evening at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs as the Switchbacks FC host the Seattle Sounders FC 2 on 90’s Night where the first 500 fans will receive a POGS Giveaway, courtesy of Weidner Apartment Homes.

Both the Sounders 2 and Switchbacks have so far played 20 matches in the 2017 USL campaign, with the Switchbacks occupying 7th position at the time of writing – one point and one place above the 8th-placed Sounders 2.  The top eight in the Western Conference will make the playoffs, but due to wildly uneven scheduling, 9th-place Orange County SC have a whopping six games in hand on the two clubs who currently occupy the last two playoff positions.  Just two points behind the Switchbacks, OC will host the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 on Saturday before making a mid-week trip to the StubHub Center to take on the Los Angeles Galaxy II next Wednesday.   

Winless in their last four matches, the Switchbacks hosted Saturday’s opponents on April 29th in a wild game that saw five goals and the home team finish the match with ten men.  Irvin Parra started the scoring for S2 with a penalty-kick in freezing conditions in Colorado Springs before a second-half brace from Felix Chenkam overcame goals from Switchbacks full back Jordan Burt and on-loan midfielder Ricardo Perez.

Burt was named as a starter on the USL Team of the Week after scoring twice last Saturday as the Switchbacks lost 4-3 to the Oklahoma City Energy FC at Taft Field in Oklahoma.

“I’m just sticking to the day-in, day-out work,” said Burt when asked about his place on the Team of the Week – the second such award of 2017 for right back Burt.  “It’s about the team and we’ve got to get things going.  It will be a big game on Saturday against Seattle and we need to bring back our focus to our game.  I’m looking forward to being back at home and in front of our fans.  Coming home helps – we always play well at home so hopefully we can continue to press and play at our tempo.”

“It’s not like we’ve been playing badly.  In a lot of moments, we’ve been doing the right thing, but the simplest mistakes have led to us giving up goals,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “Changing the lineup this weekend is a possibility.  Davy [Armstrong] is almost back so that’s a good lift for everyone.  He looks good in practice and I’m very glad for him that he’s involved.  We have to take care of our game and not worry about Seattle.  They’ve been playing younger guys and the Sounders have an MLS game this weekend – but none of that matters: we’ve simply got to show up and play.”

Major League Soccer’s Seattle Sounders will travel to Carson, California to play the Los Angeles Galaxy on Saturday as the Sounders look to keep their grip on a 2017 MLS Cup Playoff place.  

S2 have not won in USL play since a 2-0 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 on July 1st.  Four consecutive losses have S2 Head Coach Ezra Hendrickson’s men hovering just above the aforementioned 2017 USL Playoffs cut-line.  Former Duke Blue Devil’s standout Zach Mathers is S2’s leader in goals-scored in 2017 with six, while ever-dangerous striker Irvin Parra has netted five times this season.  

S2 will be without midfielder Ray Saari who leads S2’s stat-chart in assists and remains his team’s most influential player.  Saari is second in matches-started and minutes-played to Brian Nana-Sinkam, a defender who perfected his trade as a standout at Stanford University, playing under Head Coach Jeremy Gunn – who himself made his coaching name at Durango, Colorado’s Fort Lewis College.

“We have to come out and be aggressive and press Seattle and go after them,” said Luke Vercollone after a midday training session at the Air Force Academy.  “It means a lot to be back here.  We play well at home and we know we need to win.  We’ve put in a good week of practice so far so I’m feeling good about this weekend.  We’ve put the past couple results behind us and we’re ready to get back on track.”

“There have been seven games this season – SEVEN! – where we’ve had the lead and ended up tying or losing,” said Trittschuh.  “That’s just not good enough.  It happened in Arizona and of course in Oklahoma and it must stop.  Being home this weekend against Seattle will help, but only if we eliminate our mistakes.  It’s a must – if we don’t get two wins at home we can almost kiss the playoffs goodbye.”

S2 have so far used 38 players in the 2017 USL season – clearly showing the immense depth afforded to MLS 2 teams.  Seattle-native David Olsen is another player the Switchbacks will have to mark closely on Saturday, with the 21-year-old striker having accounted for four goals in his nineteen appearances this season.  Olsen was the scorer of S2’s most recent goal – in a 2-1 loss at the Starfire Sports Complex on July 16th to Orange County SC.  

“We’ve got to show up and play our best in front of our fans.  It’s our fortress,” said striker Jack Jones.  “Everyone talks about the altitude, and that’s a part of it, but it’s on us and about our game – we’ve got to bring the fire.  We need to show not just that we can get back-to-back wins at home, but that we’re one of the best teams in this league.  It’s crunch-time now.”

Next Saturday the Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field for a showdown against a struggling Portland Timbers 2 side, with Colorado Technical University sponsoring a Kids Backpack Giveaway.

The Switchbacks will conclude their three-match 2017 regular season series against the Sounders 2 on September 16th at the Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila, Washington.  

Tickets for Saturday's match against S2 start at just $12 and are available here.

Two teams desperate for three points square off this Saturday evening at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs as the Switchbacks FC host the Seattle Sounders FC 2 on 90’s Night where the first 500 fans will receive a POGS Giveaway, courtesy of Weidner Apartment Homes.

Both the Sounders 2 and Switchbacks have so far played 20 matches in the 2017 USL campaign, with the Switchbacks occupying 7th position at the time of writing – one point and one place above the 8th-placed Sounders 2.  The top eight in the Western Conference will make the playoffs, but due to wildly uneven scheduling, 9th-place Orange County SC have a whopping six games in hand on the two clubs who currently occupy the last two playoff positions.  Just two points behind the Switchbacks, OC will host the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 on Saturday before making a mid-week trip to the StubHub Center to take on the Los Angeles Galaxy II next Wednesday.   

Winless in their last four matches, the Switchbacks hosted Saturday’s opponents on April 29th in a wild game that saw five goals and the home team finish the match with ten men.  Irvin Parra started the scoring for S2 with a penalty-kick in freezing conditions in Colorado Springs before a second-half brace from Felix Chenkam overcame goals from Switchbacks full back Jordan Burt and on-loan midfielder Ricardo Perez.

Burt was named as a starter on the USL Team of the Week after scoring twice last Saturday as the Switchbacks lost 4-3 to the Oklahoma City Energy FC at Taft Field in Oklahoma.

“I’m just sticking to the day-in, day-out work,” said Burt when asked about his place on the Team of the Week – the second such award of 2017 for right back Burt.  “It’s about the team and we’ve got to get things going.  It will be a big game on Saturday against Seattle and we need to bring back our focus to our game.  I’m looking forward to being back at home and in front of our fans.  Coming home helps – we always play well at home so hopefully we can continue to press and play at our tempo.”

“It’s not like we’ve been playing badly.  In a lot of moments, we’ve been doing the right thing, but the simplest mistakes have led to us giving up goals,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “Changing the lineup this weekend is a possibility.  Davy [Armstrong] is almost back so that’s a good lift for everyone.  He looks good in practice and I’m very glad for him that he’s involved.  We have to take care of our game and not worry about Seattle.  They’ve been playing younger guys and the Sounders have an MLS game this weekend – but none of that matters: we’ve simply got to show up and play.”

Major League Soccer’s Seattle Sounders will travel to Carson, California to play the Los Angeles Galaxy on Saturday as the Sounders look to keep their grip on a 2017 MLS Cup Playoff place.  

S2 have not won in USL play since a 2-0 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 on July 1st.  Four consecutive losses have S2 Head Coach Ezra Hendrickson’s men hovering just above the aforementioned 2017 USL Playoffs cut-line.  Former Duke Blue Devil’s standout Zach Mathers is S2’s leader in goals-scored in 2017 with six, while ever-dangerous striker Irvin Parra has netted five times this season.  

S2 will be without midfielder Ray Saari who leads S2’s stat-chart in assists and remains his team’s most influential player.  Saari is second in matches-started and minutes-played to Brian Nana-Sinkam, a defender who perfected his trade as a standout at Stanford University, playing under Head Coach Jeremy Gunn – who himself made his coaching name at Durango, Colorado’s Fort Lewis College.

“We have to come out and be aggressive and press Seattle and go after them,” said Luke Vercollone after a midday training session at the Air Force Academy.  “It means a lot to be back here.  We play well at home and we know we need to win.  We’ve put in a good week of practice so far so I’m feeling good about this weekend.  We’ve put the past couple results behind us and we’re ready to get back on track.”

“There have been seven games this season – SEVEN! – where we’ve had the lead and ended up tying or losing,” said Trittschuh.  “That’s just not good enough.  It happened in Arizona and of course in Oklahoma and it must stop.  Being home this weekend against Seattle will help, but only if we eliminate our mistakes.  It’s a must – if we don’t get two wins at home we can almost kiss the playoffs goodbye.”

S2 have so far used 38 players in the 2017 USL season – clearly showing the immense depth afforded to MLS 2 teams.  Seattle-native David Olsen is another player the Switchbacks will have to mark closely on Saturday, with the 21-year-old striker having accounted for four goals in his nineteen appearances this season.  Olsen was the scorer of S2’s most recent goal – in a 2-1 loss at the Starfire Sports Complex on July 16th to Orange County SC.  

“We’ve got to show up and play our best in front of our fans.  It’s our fortress,” said striker Jack Jones.  “Everyone talks about the altitude, and that’s a part of it, but it’s on us and about our game – we’ve got to bring the fire.  We need to show not just that we can get back-to-back wins at home, but that we’re one of the best teams in this league.  It’s crunch-time now.”

Next Saturday the Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field for a showdown against a struggling Portland Timbers 2 side, with Colorado Technical University sponsoring a Kids Backpack Giveaway.

The Switchbacks will conclude their three-match 2017 regular season series against the Sounders 2 on September 16th at the Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila, Washington.  

Tickets for Saturday’s match against S2 start at just $12 and are available here.

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC head to the Valley of the Sun on Saturday to take on Phoenix Rising FC for the first time in 2017.  

A 9 p.m. start should see temperatures at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex still hovering around triple digits, as Arizona’s capital city has been locked in excessive heat warnings for most of the last few weeks.  Due to the dangerous temperatures, players may well be given a water break in both halves of the match if the heat index necessitates such a stoppage.

“We won’t think about the heat,” said right back Jordan Burt immediately following the draw against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2.  “We’ve got to go out and play our game no matter the conditions – just like we did in the second half tonight.  We can’t and won’t think about factors like the heat.  We just control what we can.”

Ivorian superstar Didier Drogba rightly grabs the headlines for Phoenix Rising, as the 39-year-old striker is the most famous and internationally recognized player in USL history.  Most known for his time at Chelsea, Drogba’s playing career has spanned three continents and over 100 international appearances for the Ivory Coast.  Far and away his country’s all-time leading goal scorer, Drogba is also a part owner of Phoenix Rising FC.  Drogba scored a wicked stoppage-time free kick on Saturday night as Phoenix Rising fought back to draw Orange County SC at Orange County Great Park in Irvine, California.

“The first thing that comes to mind is playing against a guy I watched as a kid…and shutting him down,” said central defender Josh Phillips when asked about Drogba.  “Everyone has to work in this league to be successful and he’s no different.”  

“I relish the challenge of facing a player like Drogba,” said Burt.  “I was a Chelsea fan growing up so on some levels it’s a bit surreal.  Once the game begins and we start playing it’s just another tough test for us, but I think we’ll be amped-up because of the challenge of playing against some of their top guys.  It’s always a good test in Arizona and next weekend won’t be any different.”

Drogba isn’t the only big-name player on Phoenix Rising’s roster.  Former England international Shaun Wright-Phillips signed with Phoenix after a career that saw the tricky winger play at the very top of England’s Premier League with both Manchester City and Chelsea.  Originally moving to North America with the New York Red Bulls after four seasons with London’s Queen Park Rangers, Wright-Phillips has scored twice in thirteen appearances for Phoenix Rising this season.

“It’s really exciting – how could you not see those names and get up for the match?” said Conner Bevans.  “We have no choice but to play really well next weekend and their big names should bring out the very best in all of us.”

“Coach will set us up well and get us ready to play,” said captain Rony Argueta.  “We’ll try our best to forget about the names and go at Saturday like every other game.  No doubt we’re going to be excited for the challenge but we have to come out ready like every other game and keep pushing forward.”

Englishman Luke Rooney – no relation to his famous namesake, Wayne – has scored three times for Phoenix Rising in just five appearances in 2017.  Rooney did not feature against Orange County SC on Saturday, so his inclusion against the Switchbacks remains doubtful as does that of Shaun Wright-Phillips who was removed at halftime and replaced by Eric Avila.

Before the start of the 2017 USL season, Phoenix Rising signed two players who had successful stints with the Switchbacks.  Forward Mike Seth and defender JJ Greer moved south to Arizona, although both have seen their minutes limited in their first season in Phoenix.  Seth has so far logged just 154 minutes in USL play, while Greer has started only four of Phoenix Rising’s fourteen league matches.  

The Switchbacks and Phoenix Rising will complete their season-series on Saturday, September 9th at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs.  The first 500 fans will receive the 5th and final section in the Poster Giveaway Series, courtesy of Accelerated Wealth.

Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh’s team showed their fighting spirit on Saturday as they battled back from relinquishing two first half goals to draw the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 and Weidner Field in Colorado Springs.  A delightful finish from winger Masta Kacher was followed by a stunning free kick from second half substitute Kevaughn Frater as the Switchbacks sealed a point that pushed them into 6th place in the USL’s Western Conference at the time of writing.  

“If we can play in Arizona like we did in the second half tonight we’ll be fine,” said Trittschuh.  “It’s going to be a big challenge for us with the team we’ll face and the heat.  We’ve got to focus on all their players – not just the names that stand out.  We can’t choose our times to play.  We’ll deal with the conditions down there.  Tactically we may have to change things up so that we make sure we play like we did in the second half against Vancouver.  We have one game a week now so that gives us time to prepare and move things around – we just have to go out and play in Arizona.”

Saturday, July 29th sees the return of the Switchbacks to Weidner Field as they welcome the Seattle Sounders FC 2 to Colorado Springs on 90’s Night with the first 500 fans through the turnstiles receiving a special edition Switchbacks FC POGS Giveaway, courtesy of Weidner Apartment Homes.  Tickets start at just $12 and are available here.

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC head to the Valley of the Sun on Saturday to take on Phoenix Rising FC for the first time in 2017.  

A 9 p.m. start should see temperatures at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex still hovering around triple digits, as Arizona’s capital city has been locked in excessive heat warnings for most of the last few weeks.  Due to the dangerous temperatures, players may well be given a water break in both halves of the match if the heat index necessitates such a stoppage.

“We won’t think about the heat,” said right back Jordan Burt immediately following the draw against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2.  “We’ve got to go out and play our game no matter the conditions – just like we did in the second half tonight.  We can’t and won’t think about factors like the heat.  We just control what we can.”

Ivorian superstar Didier Drogba rightly grabs the headlines for Phoenix Rising, as the 39-year-old striker is the most famous and internationally recognized player in USL history.  Most known for his time at Chelsea, Drogba’s playing career has spanned three continents and over 100 international appearances for the Ivory Coast.  Far and away his country’s all-time leading goal scorer, Drogba is also a part owner of Phoenix Rising FC.  Drogba scored a wicked stoppage-time free kick on Saturday night as Phoenix Rising fought back to draw Orange County SC at Orange County Great Park in Irvine, California.

“The first thing that comes to mind is playing against a guy I watched as a kid…and shutting him down,” said central defender Josh Phillips when asked about Drogba.  “Everyone has to work in this league to be successful and he’s no different.”  

“I relish the challenge of facing a player like Drogba,” said Burt.  “I was a Chelsea fan growing up so on some levels it’s a bit surreal.  Once the game begins and we start playing it’s just another tough test for us, but I think we’ll be amped-up because of the challenge of playing against some of their top guys.  It’s always a good test in Arizona and next weekend won’t be any different.”

Drogba isn’t the only big-name player on Phoenix Rising’s roster.  Former England international Shaun Wright-Phillips signed with Phoenix after a career that saw the tricky winger play at the very top of England’s Premier League with both Manchester City and Chelsea.  Originally moving to North America with the New York Red Bulls after four seasons with London’s Queen Park Rangers, Wright-Phillips has scored twice in thirteen appearances for Phoenix Rising this season.

“It’s really exciting – how could you not see those names and get up for the match?” said Conner Bevans.  “We have no choice but to play really well next weekend and their big names should bring out the very best in all of us.”

“Coach will set us up well and get us ready to play,” said captain Rony Argueta.  “We’ll try our best to forget about the names and go at Saturday like every other game.  No doubt we’re going to be excited for the challenge but we have to come out ready like every other game and keep pushing forward.”

Englishman Luke Rooney – no relation to his famous namesake, Wayne – has scored three times for Phoenix Rising in just five appearances in 2017.  Rooney did not feature against Orange County SC on Saturday, so his inclusion against the Switchbacks remains doubtful as does that of Shaun Wright-Phillips who was removed at halftime and replaced by Eric Avila.

Before the start of the 2017 USL season, Phoenix Rising signed two players who had successful stints with the Switchbacks.  Forward Mike Seth and defender JJ Greer moved south to Arizona, although both have seen their minutes limited in their first season in Phoenix.  Seth has so far logged just 154 minutes in USL play, while Greer has started only four of Phoenix Rising’s fourteen league matches.  

The Switchbacks and Phoenix Rising will complete their season-series on Saturday, September 9th at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs.  The first 500 fans will receive the 5th and final section in the Poster Giveaway Series, courtesy of Accelerated Wealth.

Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh’s team showed their fighting spirit on Saturday as they battled back from relinquishing two first half goals to draw the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 and Weidner Field in Colorado Springs.  A delightful finish from winger Masta Kacher was followed by a stunning free kick from second half substitute Kevaughn Frater as the Switchbacks sealed a point that pushed them into 6th place in the USL’s Western Conference at the time of writing.  

“If we can play in Arizona like we did in the second half tonight we’ll be fine,” said Trittschuh.  “It’s going to be a big challenge for us with the team we’ll face and the heat.  We’ve got to focus on all their players – not just the names that stand out.  We can’t choose our times to play.  We’ll deal with the conditions down there.  Tactically we may have to change things up so that we make sure we play like we did in the second half against Vancouver.  We have one game a week now so that gives us time to prepare and move things around – we just have to go out and play in Arizona.”

Saturday, July 29th sees the return of the Switchbacks to Weidner Field as they welcome the Seattle Sounders FC 2 to Colorado Springs on 90’s Night with the first 500 fans through the turnstiles receiving a special edition Switchbacks FC POGS Giveaway, courtesy of Weidner Apartment Homes.  Tickets start at just $12 and are available here.

Canada comes calling to Colorado Springs this Saturday as the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 take on the Switchbacks at Weidner Field.  The first 500 fans through the gates will receive the 4th section of the Switchbacks’ Poster Giveaway Series, courtesy of Kneaders Bakery & Café. 

The Switchbacks lost to WFC2 on May 14th, as goals from Marco Bustos, Gloire Amanda, and Chris Serban condemned Steve Trittschuh’s men to a 3-1 defeat at Thunderbird Stadium.  Sean McFarlane’s 88th-minute strike ruined WFC2 goalkeeper Sean Melvin’s clean sheet, and Melvin has since seen his time in net diminished by the play of Seattle native Spencer Richey. 

“We’ve got to go in on Saturday and battle,” said Switchbacks striker Jack Jones.  “Let’s go for retaliation.” 

Major League Soccer’s Vancouver Whitecaps are locked in a battle for the sixth and final playoff position in the Western Conference and will host New York City FC on Wednesday, July 5th at BC Place in Vancouver.  The Whitecaps started July with a 4-0 loss at the hands of the Chicago Fire at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Illinois, and will not return to MLS action after Wednesday’s match against NYCFC until a July 19th clash with the LA Galaxy.  The break in MLS play could potentially see any number of MLS regulars feature against the Switchbacks on Saturday at Weidner Field, with WFC2 Head Coach Rich Fagan looking to stop a four-match winless run for WFC2. 

“Once again, we face a team where we don’t know who they’ll bring,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “The Whitecaps 2 have been struggling a little so we must get on them early and keep our focus for the entire 90 minutes.  We have to wait and see about Vancouver’s team – we just don’t know who’ll they’ll bring, but we’ll watch tomorrow [Wednesday] night when the Whitecaps play in MLS.” 

“They’re always a good side,” said right back Conner Bevans.  “We never know because of MLS just who will be here for them, but it doesn’t change our approach.  We expect a tough match, but it’s a winnable game.” 

Winnipeg native Marco Bustos leads WFC2 in scoring with 4 goals, while former Princeton University standout Thomas Sanner is second on the Whitecaps 2 stat-sheet having notched 3 goals in 2017.  Bustos’ lead at the top of WFC2’s scoring charts is all the more impressive considering the diminutive forward has only appeared in four matches in 2017 for WFC2.  Bustos has not featured for WFC2 since scoring the Whitecaps 2’s lone goal in a 2-1 loss at the hands of Phoenix Rising FC on June 10th in Arizona. 

Dutch center back and WFC2 captain Sem de Wit is arguably the first name on the Whitecaps 2’s team sheet and easily leads his team in minutes played, clearances, blocks, duels won, and aerial duels won.  Andy Thoma leads WFC2 in appearances with 15, with de Wit, Gloire Amanda, and Thomas Gardner all having appeared 13 times in 2017 for WFC2.  Tanzanian-born Amanda is often tagged as an impact substitute and is a player who demands attention from opposing defenders. 

A short turnaround awaits the Whitecaps FC 2 after their match in Colorado Springs, as WFC2 will make their way back to British Columbia for a midweek clash with the Swope Park Rangers at Thunderbird Stadium on Wednesday, July 12th. 

WFC2 lost to the Seattle Sounders FC 2 on July 1st at McLeod Athletic Park in Langley, British Columbia.  The Whitecaps FC 2 split their home games between the University of British Columbia’s Thunderbird Stadium and McLeod Athletic Park which is located about an hour to the southeast of downtown Vancouver. 

The Switchbacks also fell on July 1st, as a lone penalty kick from Rio Grande Valley FC Toros striker Rubén Luna was enough to take all three points from Weidner Field.  “We need to improve off the last game,” said midfielder Luke Vercollone.  “Saturday is a huge game for us.  I expect Vancouver to play to win and they’ll be up for it.  They beat us in the playoffs last season and they know it’s not easy to get a result in Colorado Springs.  They need a win like us and it’s a big game for both teams – but especially big for us after last week.” 

“The result last Saturday was disappointing because we started well, but we lost our focus on the so-called penalty,” said Trittschuh.  “We’ve got to maintain our concentration for 90 minutes.  It’s disappointing to lose at home, especially because anywhere else on the field that’s not a foul.  But we’ll have a good week to prepare and be ready to get back on track.” 

At the time of writing the Whitecaps FC 2 was stuck in 12th place in the USL’s Western Conference, while the Switchbacks are maintaining their playoff position in 7th.  Saturday’s match against the Whitecaps FC 2 will be the final meeting between Colorado Springs and Vancouver in 2017.  The Switchbacks will travel to the Valley of the Sun to face Phoenix Rising FC on July 15th at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex before heading to Taft Stadium in Oklahoma City for a match against the Energy FC on July 22nd.  A week later the Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field as they host the Seattle Sounders FC 2 on 90’s Night that includes a POGS giveaway, courtesy of Weidner Apartment Homes. 

Eight matches remain at Weidner Field in the 2017 USL regular season for the Switchbacks, who will be looking to put the disappointment of Saturday’s controversial loss behind them with a strong showing against WFC2.  

“Vancouver always gives us a good game,” said center back Josh Phillips after a midday Fourth of July practice.  “Last time for them here was the playoff loss so we know they’ll fight.  I think if we come with good energy at home we’ll do well.  They come from sea-level so that makes a difference, but really it doesn’t matter who they might bring to play against us – the game is about us and our focus and energy level.”

Tickets for Saturday's match vs Vancouver start at just $12 and are available here.

Canada comes calling to Colorado Springs this Saturday as the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 take on the Switchbacks at Weidner Field.  The first 500 fans through the gates will receive the 4th section of the Switchbacks’ Poster Giveaway Series, courtesy of Kneaders Bakery & Café. 

The Switchbacks lost to WFC2 on May 14th, as goals from Marco Bustos, Gloire Amanda, and Chris Serban condemned Steve Trittschuh’s men to a 3-1 defeat at Thunderbird Stadium.  Sean McFarlane’s 88th-minute strike ruined WFC2 goalkeeper Sean Melvin’s clean sheet, and Melvin has since seen his time in net diminished by the play of Seattle native Spencer Richey. 

“We’ve got to go in on Saturday and battle,” said Switchbacks striker Jack Jones.  “Let’s go for retaliation.” 

Major League Soccer’s Vancouver Whitecaps are locked in a battle for the sixth and final playoff position in the Western Conference and will host New York City FC on Wednesday, July 5th at BC Place in Vancouver.  The Whitecaps started July with a 4-0 loss at the hands of the Chicago Fire at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Illinois, and will not return to MLS action after Wednesday’s match against NYCFC until a July 19th clash with the LA Galaxy.  The break in MLS play could potentially see any number of MLS regulars feature against the Switchbacks on Saturday at Weidner Field, with WFC2 Head Coach Rich Fagan looking to stop a four-match winless run for WFC2. 

“Once again, we face a team where we don’t know who they’ll bring,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “The Whitecaps 2 have been struggling a little so we must get on them early and keep our focus for the entire 90 minutes.  We have to wait and see about Vancouver’s team – we just don’t know who’ll they’ll bring, but we’ll watch tomorrow [Wednesday] night when the Whitecaps play in MLS.” 

“They’re always a good side,” said right back Conner Bevans.  “We never know because of MLS just who will be here for them, but it doesn’t change our approach.  We expect a tough match, but it’s a winnable game.” 

Winnipeg native Marco Bustos leads WFC2 in scoring with 4 goals, while former Princeton University standout Thomas Sanner is second on the Whitecaps 2 stat-sheet having notched 3 goals in 2017.  Bustos’ lead at the top of WFC2’s scoring charts is all the more impressive considering the diminutive forward has only appeared in four matches in 2017 for WFC2.  Bustos has not featured for WFC2 since scoring the Whitecaps 2’s lone goal in a 2-1 loss at the hands of Phoenix Rising FC on June 10th in Arizona. 

Dutch center back and WFC2 captain Sem de Wit is arguably the first name on the Whitecaps 2’s team sheet and easily leads his team in minutes played, clearances, blocks, duels won, and aerial duels won.  Andy Thoma leads WFC2 in appearances with 15, with de Wit, Gloire Amanda, and Thomas Gardner all having appeared 13 times in 2017 for WFC2.  Tanzanian-born Amanda is often tagged as an impact substitute and is a player who demands attention from opposing defenders. 

A short turnaround awaits the Whitecaps FC 2 after their match in Colorado Springs, as WFC2 will make their way back to British Columbia for a midweek clash with the Swope Park Rangers at Thunderbird Stadium on Wednesday, July 12th. 

WFC2 lost to the Seattle Sounders FC 2 on July 1st at McLeod Athletic Park in Langley, British Columbia.  The Whitecaps FC 2 split their home games between the University of British Columbia’s Thunderbird Stadium and McLeod Athletic Park which is located about an hour to the southeast of downtown Vancouver. 

The Switchbacks also fell on July 1st, as a lone penalty kick from Rio Grande Valley FC Toros striker Rubén Luna was enough to take all three points from Weidner Field.  “We need to improve off the last game,” said midfielder Luke Vercollone.  “Saturday is a huge game for us.  I expect Vancouver to play to win and they’ll be up for it.  They beat us in the playoffs last season and they know it’s not easy to get a result in Colorado Springs.  They need a win like us and it’s a big game for both teams – but especially big for us after last week.” 

“The result last Saturday was disappointing because we started well, but we lost our focus on the so-called penalty,” said Trittschuh.  “We’ve got to maintain our concentration for 90 minutes.  It’s disappointing to lose at home, especially because anywhere else on the field that’s not a foul.  But we’ll have a good week to prepare and be ready to get back on track.” 

At the time of writing the Whitecaps FC 2 was stuck in 12th place in the USL’s Western Conference, while the Switchbacks are maintaining their playoff position in 7th.  Saturday’s match against the Whitecaps FC 2 will be the final meeting between Colorado Springs and Vancouver in 2017.  The Switchbacks will travel to the Valley of the Sun to face Phoenix Rising FC on July 15th at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex before heading to Taft Stadium in Oklahoma City for a match against the Energy FC on July 22nd.  A week later the Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field as they host the Seattle Sounders FC 2 on 90’s Night that includes a POGS giveaway, courtesy of Weidner Apartment Homes. 

Eight matches remain at Weidner Field in the 2017 USL regular season for the Switchbacks, who will be looking to put the disappointment of Saturday’s controversial loss behind them with a strong showing against WFC2.  

“Vancouver always gives us a good game,” said center back Josh Phillips after a midday Fourth of July practice.  “Last time for them here was the playoff loss so we know they’ll fight.  I think if we come with good energy at home we’ll do well.  They come from sea-level so that makes a difference, but really it doesn’t matter who they might bring to play against us – the game is about us and our focus and energy level.”

Tickets for Saturday’s match vs Vancouver start at just $12 and are available here.

After ending San Antonio FC’s unbeaten start to the 2017 USL season, the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC return to Weidner Field this Saturday evening as Steve Trittschuh’s team play host to the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros.  Fireworks will follow the match, courtesy of Oakwood Homes, as the Switchbacks celebrate Independence Day.

A record crowd of 4, 429 saw the Switchbacks defeat San Antonio FC 1-0 last Saturday at Weidner Field, as the Switchbacks begin their push to solidify their position towards the top of the USL’s Western Conference.  

RGV FC defeated the Switchbacks 3-1 on April 12th at H-E-B Park in Edinburg, Texas behind a brace from Memo Rodriguez and a strike from Camilo Monroy.  Chris James pulled a goal back for the Switchbacks, who ultimately bounced back from the loss in Texas to defeat the Real Monarchs SLC 2-1 just three days later on April 15th at Weidner Field.

Memo Rodriguez leads RGV FC in scoring with three goals in 2017, while Eric Bird, Rubén Luna, and Kyle Murphy are all tied with two goals each.  Luna remains one of RGV FC’s most dangerous players, despite coming off the bench in recent weeks. Midfielders José Escalante, Charlie Ward, and Eric Bird are players who will demand attention from the Switchbacks on Saturday.  Escalante is at his best when starting out wide, whereas Bird excels in the Number 10 role just behind lone striker Luna.  Birmingham, England native Charlie Ward, the human metronome of RGV FC’s play, sits deep in center midfield – most effectively alongside Jorginho James.

Rio Grande Valley FC’s association with Major League Soccer’s Houston Dynamo makes pinpointing a starting XI for Saturday’s visitors to Weidner Field difficult.  On Wednesday afternoon the Dynamo will host Sporting Kansas City in a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Round of 16 clash at BBVA Compass Stadium in Texas’ largest city.  

“We don’t know who exactly will face us on Saturday because Rio Grande can bring guys down from Houston,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “Houston have the Open Cup game tomorrow so we’ll watch that and get a better idea about who might be in Rio Grande’s lineup here this weekend.”

Since a 3-1 victory over the Seattle Sounders FC 2 on June 10th at H-E-B Park, the Toros have lost two games in a row.  A narrow 1-0 loss to the Galaxy II on June 17th was followed last Wednesday by a 6-2 hammering at the hands of a resurgent Sacramento Republic FC at Papa Murphy’s Park in Sacramento.  

“Rio Grande are a team that’s playing well despite the last two results not going their way,” said Trittschuh.  “We’ve got to be ready for them.  I feel like if we can keep playing as we did against San Antonio we’ll be alright.  It was a good win.  There are some things we need to clean up and improve, but hopefully, we can keep the winning momentum this weekend.”

The 1-0 victory over San Antonio FC vaulted the Switchbacks into 4th place in the USL’s Western Conference table at the time of writing – six points ahead of 9th-place RGV FC.  Sean McFarlane nabbed the lone goal of last weekend’s contest, as the Switchbacks center back deftly flicked Masta Kacher’s devilishly driven free kick past San Antonio goalkeeper Diego Restrepo en route to earning himself Man of the Match honors.

McFarlane was named as a starter on the USL Team of the Week on Tuesday morning.  Switchbacks players have now appeared on four of the five most recent USL Teams of the Week.  “It feels good,” said McFarlane of the USL’s recognition.  “But honestly all the thanks goes to my teammates.  I don’t take credit for it, just like the goal; the praise has to go to Masta [Kacher] for the ball.”

“He’s playing well – really well,” said Trittschuh of McFarlane.  “He’s a very talented player and he’s been good going forward for us.  Those awards help the players and their confidence and if we keep winning hopefully more guys will pick those up.  I’m glad we got the goal from a re-start.  We’ve been trying to score more of those all season.  We play well at home and the guys feed off the confidence that comes from playing here.  I’ve told the players that if we can take care of our home games then we’ll be fine.”

“It’s great for Sean,” said Switchbacks captain Rony Argueta.  “4 of the last 5 weeks we’ve had players on the Team of the Week.  It’s great for the confidence of all of us, and it shows we’re successful as a team.”

Jordan Burt, Argueta, Kevaughn Frater, and McFarlane have all been starters on the Team of the Week in the last five weeks – with Frater the Player of the Week after his two-goal performance against the Los Angeles Galaxy II on June 10th.

“It was huge to get that win against San Antonio,” continued Argueta.  “It was a big confidence booster going into these next two games at home which we know will be tough.  A lot of guys are looking really good in training and we’ll do everything to keep our momentum going into Saturday.  Rio Grande are a good team, they move the ball well, and they’re dangerous.  But I think here at home we’ll bring the game to them.”

On a negative note, Switchbacks left back Josh Suggs will be suspended for Saturday’s contest against RGV FC after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season.  Suggs, who was superb last weekend against San Antonio FC, will be available for the visit of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 to Weidner Field on July 8th as Kneaders Bakery & Café will sponsor the 4th Poster Giveaway Night.  “Rio Grande are a really good team and the guys have to expect a battle,” said Suggs after a midday practice at the Pride Soccer Club in eastern Colorado Springs on Tuesday where on-field temperatures reached into the triple digits.  “The win against San Antonio helps a lot – we expect to win at home, and it always helps our confidence.”

Numerous options abound as Suggs’ potential replacement on Saturday, with defenders Conner Bevans, Pascal Eboussi and Diego Gutierrez all ready to step in and replace one of the Switchbacks’ most consistent performers.

Saturday brings a close to the 2017 series between the Switchbacks and RGV FC.  With RGV FC just a solitary point out of 8th place – the final playoff position in the Western Conference – a playoff rematch could be in store for Saturday’s opponents.

“Rio Grande are a technical team so we must be compact and keep the pace high and use the altitude,” said Switchbacks Assistant Coach Wolde Harris.  “Saturday will be about building on the momentum from the win against San Antonio and improving our game in the final third.”

“I expect a tough game this weekend – same as in April against Rio Grande,” said Sean McFarlane.  “They beat us the first time, but now we’re at home and we need to come out ready.”

Tickets for Saturday's match start at just $12 and are available here.

After ending San Antonio FC’s unbeaten start to the 2017 USL season, the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC return to Weidner Field this Saturday evening as Steve Trittschuh’s team play host to the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros.  Fireworks will follow the match, courtesy of Oakwood Homes, as the Switchbacks celebrate Independence Day.

A record crowd of 4, 429 saw the Switchbacks defeat San Antonio FC 1-0 last Saturday at Weidner Field, as the Switchbacks begin their push to solidify their position towards the top of the USL’s Western Conference.  

RGV FC defeated the Switchbacks 3-1 on April 12th at H-E-B Park in Edinburg, Texas behind a brace from Memo Rodriguez and a strike from Camilo Monroy.  Chris James pulled a goal back for the Switchbacks, who ultimately bounced back from the loss in Texas to defeat the Real Monarchs SLC 2-1 just three days later on April 15th at Weidner Field.

Memo Rodriguez leads RGV FC in scoring with three goals in 2017, while Eric Bird, Rubén Luna, and Kyle Murphy are all tied with two goals each.  Luna remains one of RGV FC’s most dangerous players, despite coming off the bench in recent weeks. Midfielders José Escalante, Charlie Ward, and Eric Bird are players who will demand attention from the Switchbacks on Saturday.  Escalante is at his best when starting out wide, whereas Bird excels in the Number 10 role just behind lone striker Luna.  Birmingham, England native Charlie Ward, the human metronome of RGV FC’s play, sits deep in center midfield – most effectively alongside Jorginho James.

Rio Grande Valley FC’s association with Major League Soccer’s Houston Dynamo makes pinpointing a starting XI for Saturday’s visitors to Weidner Field difficult.  On Wednesday afternoon the Dynamo will host Sporting Kansas City in a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Round of 16 clash at BBVA Compass Stadium in Texas’ largest city.  

“We don’t know who exactly will face us on Saturday because Rio Grande can bring guys down from Houston,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “Houston have the Open Cup game tomorrow so we’ll watch that and get a better idea about who might be in Rio Grande’s lineup here this weekend.”

Since a 3-1 victory over the Seattle Sounders FC 2 on June 10th at H-E-B Park, the Toros have lost two games in a row.  A narrow 1-0 loss to the Galaxy II on June 17th was followed last Wednesday by a 6-2 hammering at the hands of a resurgent Sacramento Republic FC at Papa Murphy’s Park in Sacramento.  

“Rio Grande are a team that’s playing well despite the last two results not going their way,” said Trittschuh.  “We’ve got to be ready for them.  I feel like if we can keep playing as we did against San Antonio we’ll be alright.  It was a good win.  There are some things we need to clean up and improve, but hopefully, we can keep the winning momentum this weekend.”

The 1-0 victory over San Antonio FC vaulted the Switchbacks into 4th place in the USL’s Western Conference table at the time of writing – six points ahead of 9th-place RGV FC.  Sean McFarlane nabbed the lone goal of last weekend’s contest, as the Switchbacks center back deftly flicked Masta Kacher’s devilishly driven free kick past San Antonio goalkeeper Diego Restrepo en route to earning himself Man of the Match honors.

McFarlane was named as a starter on the USL Team of the Week on Tuesday morning.  Switchbacks players have now appeared on four of the five most recent USL Teams of the Week.  “It feels good,” said McFarlane of the USL’s recognition.  “But honestly all the thanks goes to my teammates.  I don’t take credit for it, just like the goal; the praise has to go to Masta [Kacher] for the ball.”

“He’s playing well – really well,” said Trittschuh of McFarlane.  “He’s a very talented player and he’s been good going forward for us.  Those awards help the players and their confidence and if we keep winning hopefully more guys will pick those up.  I’m glad we got the goal from a re-start.  We’ve been trying to score more of those all season.  We play well at home and the guys feed off the confidence that comes from playing here.  I’ve told the players that if we can take care of our home games then we’ll be fine.”

“It’s great for Sean,” said Switchbacks captain Rony Argueta.  “4 of the last 5 weeks we’ve had players on the Team of the Week.  It’s great for the confidence of all of us, and it shows we’re successful as a team.”

Jordan Burt, Argueta, Kevaughn Frater, and McFarlane have all been starters on the Team of the Week in the last five weeks – with Frater the Player of the Week after his two-goal performance against the Los Angeles Galaxy II on June 10th.

“It was huge to get that win against San Antonio,” continued Argueta.  “It was a big confidence booster going into these next two games at home which we know will be tough.  A lot of guys are looking really good in training and we’ll do everything to keep our momentum going into Saturday.  Rio Grande are a good team, they move the ball well, and they’re dangerous.  But I think here at home we’ll bring the game to them.”

On a negative note, Switchbacks left back Josh Suggs will be suspended for Saturday’s contest against RGV FC after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season.  Suggs, who was superb last weekend against San Antonio FC, will be available for the visit of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 to Weidner Field on July 8th as Kneaders Bakery & Café will sponsor the 4th Poster Giveaway Night.  “Rio Grande are a really good team and the guys have to expect a battle,” said Suggs after a midday practice at the Pride Soccer Club in eastern Colorado Springs on Tuesday where on-field temperatures reached into the triple digits.  “The win against San Antonio helps a lot – we expect to win at home, and it always helps our confidence.”

Numerous options abound as Suggs’ potential replacement on Saturday, with defenders Conner Bevans, Pascal Eboussi and Diego Gutierrez all ready to step in and replace one of the Switchbacks’ most consistent performers.

Saturday brings a close to the 2017 series between the Switchbacks and RGV FC.  With RGV FC just a solitary point out of 8th place – the final playoff position in the Western Conference – a playoff rematch could be in store for Saturday’s opponents.

“Rio Grande are a technical team so we must be compact and keep the pace high and use the altitude,” said Switchbacks Assistant Coach Wolde Harris.  “Saturday will be about building on the momentum from the win against San Antonio and improving our game in the final third.”

“I expect a tough game this weekend – same as in April against Rio Grande,” said Sean McFarlane.  “They beat us the first time, but now we’re at home and we need to come out ready.”

Tickets for Saturday’s match start at just $12 and are available here.

Weidner Field welcomes the Switchbacks FC back to Colorado Springs this Saturday evening as red-hot San Antonio FC visit the Front Range.  Fireworks will follow the game, the first of a three-match home stand for the Switchbacks.

Undefeated in 2017 USL play, San Antonio FC will arrive rested for Saturday’s match following their comprehensive 3-1 win over the Tulsa Roughnecks FC on June 17th.  The victory, San Antonio’s tenth this season, was led by an impressive brace from striker Kris Tyrpak.  Tyrpak now has three goals this season, along with two assists in thirteen appearances.  Tyrpak is well versed in the ways of scoring in the USL after spending last season’s campaign with the Swope Park Rangers.

“I expect San Antonio to come here strong.  They’ve had time to prepare and see us play on Wednesday,” said Switchbacks winger Shane Malcolm.  “They haven’t lost yet and that’s a big motivation.  We gave them their first draw of the season so now we want to give them their first loss.”

Another familiar face for Switchbacks fans will be that of San Antonio FC defender Cyprian Hendrick, who played the previous three seasons for the Oklahoma City Energy FC.  Hendrick partnered Sebastien Ibeagha – brother of former Switchbacks defender Christian Ibeagha – in the heart of San Antonio’s defense in the win over the Tulsa Roughnecks.   

Unquestionably led by their defense, San Antonio FC lost a shutout streak of 672 minutes when Tulsa’s Joaquin Rivas equalized in the 27th minute last Saturday at Toyota Field in San Antonio, Texas.  Until Rivas’ goal, San Antonio FC’s shutout run was the second longest such streak in USL regular season history.   “They’re very, very good – especially defensively,” said right back Jordan Burt.  “We’re going to have to play our best brand of soccer to win.”

“San Antonio are very organized and they’re playing with a lot of confidence,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “They haven’t been scoring as much recently, but they keep their shape well.  It’s going to take a lot of our players doing well for us to get the win.”

“Defending-wise I think San Antonio will press us as a team and try and counter-attack us using their wide players,” said striker Kevaughn Frater.  “We’re looking for three points tomorrow; nothing else!  We’re going to work and do everything to get the win.  Maybe that will be through set pieces or from some skill…or maybe even from a piece of magic.”

Colombian Rafael Castillo is an invaluable cog in San Antonio FC’s midfield, where he is joined by Brazilian tactician Pecka.  The fact that Pecka is San Antonio FC’s statistical leader in categories like tackles won, interceptions, and duels won doesn’t fully capture the midfielder’s importance to his squad.  Without question among the first names Head Coach Darren Powell pens in his lineup card, Pecka is one of just two San Antonio FC players to have started all 14 matches this season, along with the aforementioned Sebastian Ibeagha.  

“Pecka brings stability and hard work – he’s a really good player,” said Kevaughn Frater.  “They have a lot of talent but if we can move their players and pull them out position we can do well.” 

“Pecka is a good player –a really good player,” said Trittschuh.  “San Antonio are a good team with good depth so we know we’ve got to come out strong and be ready to play.” 

After recording back-to-back wins for the first time in 2017, the Switchbacks lost an intense contest in Kansas City, Missouri on Wednesday evening as they fell 2-1 to the Swope Park Rangers at Children’s Mercy Victory Park.  Eddy Prugh opened the scoring for the Switchbacks in the 23rd minute with his first goal of the campaign after a powerful run and delightful piece of skill from reigning ULS Player of the Week Kevaughn Frater set up the Bozeman, Montana native.  “It was good to finally get one,” said Prugh.  “The first one is always the hardest – it’s a cliché, but it’s true.  Hopefully, now there’s many more to come.  San Antonio are good defensively, so we need to stick to our training and get at our opponents and put them under pressure.”

“We had a really good first half against Swope Park so we need to focus on that,” said Trittschuh.  “Swope Park’s second goal shouldn’t have counted – it should have been called for a foul on Jordy [Burt].  But that’s behind us now.  I think we’ll show up tomorrow and play our game.” 

The Switchbacks are one of just four teams to have taken any points from San Antonio FC this season.  An Aaron King strike inside of 15 minutes at Toyota Field on April 7th looked set to earn the Switchbacks a priceless three points on the road before Tyrpak equalized 10 minutes from time to hold the Switchbacks to a 1-1 draw.  “It was early in the year but what a good battle,” said King when asked to reflect on April’s draw.  “It’s a very exciting level of competition in that matchup with San Antonio.  I’m excited for the big games – it’s always been that way and of course, it’s in the back of my mind to hopefully get on the score sheet again.” 

“We could have won in San Antonio,” said Shane Malcolm.  “This is the time we can get them back at our home.” 

The Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field on Saturday, July 1st to host the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros.  Fireworks will once again follow that match, courtesy of Oakwood Homes, as the Switchbacks gather for their Independence Celebration three days before the Fourth.  The Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 will then visit Colorado Springs a week later, on July 8th.  The match against Vancouver will see the fourth of the Switchbacks’ Poster Giveaway series – the July 8th giveaway will be sponsored by Kneaders Bakery & Café.  Fans will have the chance at completing their 2017 Poster Giveaway on September 9th when Phoenix Rising and their international superstar Didier Drogba visit Colorado Springs.

Weidner Field welcomes the Switchbacks FC back to Colorado Springs this Saturday evening as red-hot San Antonio FC visit the Front Range.  Fireworks will follow the game, the first of a three-match home stand for the Switchbacks.

Undefeated in 2017 USL play, San Antonio FC will arrive rested for Saturday’s match following their comprehensive 3-1 win over the Tulsa Roughnecks FC on June 17th.  The victory, San Antonio’s tenth this season, was led by an impressive brace from striker Kris Tyrpak.  Tyrpak now has three goals this season, along with two assists in thirteen appearances.  Tyrpak is well versed in the ways of scoring in the USL after spending last season’s campaign with the Swope Park Rangers.

“I expect San Antonio to come here strong.  They’ve had time to prepare and see us play on Wednesday,” said Switchbacks winger Shane Malcolm.  “They haven’t lost yet and that’s a big motivation.  We gave them their first draw of the season so now we want to give them their first loss.”

Another familiar face for Switchbacks fans will be that of San Antonio FC defender Cyprian Hendrick, who played the previous three seasons for the Oklahoma City Energy FC.  Hendrick partnered Sebastien Ibeagha – brother of former Switchbacks defender Christian Ibeagha – in the heart of San Antonio’s defense in the win over the Tulsa Roughnecks.   

Unquestionably led by their defense, San Antonio FC lost a shutout streak of 672 minutes when Tulsa’s Joaquin Rivas equalized in the 27th minute last Saturday at Toyota Field in San Antonio, Texas.  Until Rivas’ goal, San Antonio FC’s shutout run was the second longest such streak in USL regular season history.   “They’re very, very good – especially defensively,” said right back Jordan Burt.  “We’re going to have to play our best brand of soccer to win.”

“San Antonio are very organized and they’re playing with a lot of confidence,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “They haven’t been scoring as much recently, but they keep their shape well.  It’s going to take a lot of our players doing well for us to get the win.”

“Defending-wise I think San Antonio will press us as a team and try and counter-attack us using their wide players,” said striker Kevaughn Frater.  “We’re looking for three points tomorrow; nothing else!  We’re going to work and do everything to get the win.  Maybe that will be through set pieces or from some skill…or maybe even from a piece of magic.”

Colombian Rafael Castillo is an invaluable cog in San Antonio FC’s midfield, where he is joined by Brazilian tactician Pecka.  The fact that Pecka is San Antonio FC’s statistical leader in categories like tackles won, interceptions, and duels won doesn’t fully capture the midfielder’s importance to his squad.  Without question among the first names Head Coach Darren Powell pens in his lineup card, Pecka is one of just two San Antonio FC players to have started all 14 matches this season, along with the aforementioned Sebastian Ibeagha.  

“Pecka brings stability and hard work – he’s a really good player,” said Kevaughn Frater.  “They have a lot of talent but if we can move their players and pull them out position we can do well.” 

“Pecka is a good player –a really good player,” said Trittschuh.  “San Antonio are a good team with good depth so we know we’ve got to come out strong and be ready to play.” 

After recording back-to-back wins for the first time in 2017, the Switchbacks lost an intense contest in Kansas City, Missouri on Wednesday evening as they fell 2-1 to the Swope Park Rangers at Children’s Mercy Victory Park.  Eddy Prugh opened the scoring for the Switchbacks in the 23rd minute with his first goal of the campaign after a powerful run and delightful piece of skill from reigning ULS Player of the Week Kevaughn Frater set up the Bozeman, Montana native.  “It was good to finally get one,” said Prugh.  “The first one is always the hardest – it’s a cliché, but it’s true.  Hopefully, now there’s many more to come.  San Antonio are good defensively, so we need to stick to our training and get at our opponents and put them under pressure.”

“We had a really good first half against Swope Park so we need to focus on that,” said Trittschuh.  “Swope Park’s second goal shouldn’t have counted – it should have been called for a foul on Jordy [Burt].  But that’s behind us now.  I think we’ll show up tomorrow and play our game.” 

The Switchbacks are one of just four teams to have taken any points from San Antonio FC this season.  An Aaron King strike inside of 15 minutes at Toyota Field on April 7th looked set to earn the Switchbacks a priceless three points on the road before Tyrpak equalized 10 minutes from time to hold the Switchbacks to a 1-1 draw.  “It was early in the year but what a good battle,” said King when asked to reflect on April’s draw.  “It’s a very exciting level of competition in that matchup with San Antonio.  I’m excited for the big games – it’s always been that way and of course, it’s in the back of my mind to hopefully get on the score sheet again.” 

“We could have won in San Antonio,” said Shane Malcolm.  “This is the time we can get them back at our home.” 

The Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field on Saturday, July 1st to host the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros.  Fireworks will once again follow that match, courtesy of Oakwood Homes, as the Switchbacks gather for their Independence Celebration three days before the Fourth.  The Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 will then visit Colorado Springs a week later, on July 8th.  The match against Vancouver will see the fourth of the Switchbacks’ Poster Giveaway series – the July 8th giveaway will be sponsored by Kneaders Bakery & Café.  Fans will have the chance at completing their 2017 Poster Giveaway on September 9th when Phoenix Rising and their international superstar Didier Drogba visit Colorado Springs.

On Wednesday evening the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC will face off against the Swope Park Rangers for the first time in 2017.  Buoyed by their first two-match winning streak of the season, the Switchbacks will be looking to keep pace at the top of the USL’s Western Conference with a result at Children’s Mercy Victory Field in Kansas City, Missouri.

The Swope Park Rangers have started the current campaign in fine form at their home stadium.  All five of the Swope Park Rangers’ wins in USL play have come at Children’s Mercy Victory Field just outside the Kansas City Zoo.  San Antonio FC, who currently sit in second place in the Western Conference, are the only team to have emerged from the SPR’s home field with three points this season – courtesy of a 1-0 win on May 26th.

Midfielder Kévin Oliveira, fresh from having been called into the senior Cape Verde National Team for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Uganda on June 10th, scored the opening goal last night as SPR tied Phoenix Rising 2-2 at Children’s Mercy Victory Field.  Nigerian midfielder Nansel Selbol added a second for the Swope Park Rangers with a penalty kick, only for Phoenix Rising to score twice through their Ivorian superstar Didier Drogba.  Drogba’s second goal at the very end of the match – also from a penalty kick – came after SPR’s Amer Didic was whistled for a foul on Phoenix Rising FC forward Omar Bravo.  

Striker Mark Anthony Gonzalez is one of SPR’s hottest players after a stoppage-time double secured a 3-1 win over the Tulsa Roughnecks FC last Sunday evening at Children’s Mercy Victory Field.  Gonzalez was the Swope Park Rangers Offensive Player of the Year in 2016 after a 12-goal debut season.  A sensational 56th-minute thunderbolt strike from Cameron Iwasa started the scoring for SPR against the Roughnecks before Tulsa equalized through an Oumar Ballo own-goal after a driven Roughnecks cross.

Kharlton Belmar – whom the Switchbacks know from Belmar’s time playing with the USL’s Portland Timbers 2 – leads the Swope Park Rangers in scoring with four goals.  New Zealander James Musa can play across defense or in the heart of midfield for SPR, and goalkeeper Adrián Zendejas has impressed during his time in Kansas City.

“They’ll [Swope Park Rangers] show up to fight and come out to prove they’re a better team than us,” said Switchbacks defender Diego Gutierrez.  “Like any team in this league they’ll look to win at home – but we’re on a bit of a roll now.  It means a lot for us to have won two games in a row.  That’s what we’ve been working for.  The win in L.A. has left us all with a positive feeling and it gives guys hope and gives us all a great motivation.”

The Switchbacks defeated the L.A. Galaxy II by 2-1 on Saturday at the StubHub Center Track and Field Stadium in Carson, California after a stoppage-time winner from Kevaughn Frater.  Frater’s goal is the second last-gasp strike in as many weeks for the Switchbacks.  The Switchbacks defeated the OKC Energy 1-0 on June 3rd behind club captain Rony Argueta’s shot on the final kick of the match.  

“They’re a really good team – especially good on the ball,” said Masta Kacher when asked about the Swope Park Rangers.  “We must start the game mentally just as fast as in L.A. and try our best to get our third win in a row.  It’s the first time we’ve got two wins in a row this season and we really want to keep that going forward.  It’s huge to get another late win but we just have to build and start the second half of the season well and we can think about that after a good performance in K.C.”

“These last few games we’ve really kept going,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “We haven’t stopped attacking and pushing forward – the win in L.A. has really got the spirits of the players raised.  Of course we don’t want to keep having to get three points at the very end of games, but in the end, it’s good that we are winning like in L.A.  We have a long time but hopefully we can carry the performance from last weekend into K.C.”

Frater was named the USL’s Player of the Week after his two-goal performance against the Galaxy II, just seven days after Argueta found himself on the Team of the Week.

“He’s [Frater] been working hard and he’s created his own luck,” said Switchbacks Assistant Coach Wolde Harris.  “As long as he keeps working hopefully he’ll keep being noticed.  It gives the rest of the team confidence to see guys on the Team of Week.  It shows their efforts are being recognized and that what we’re doing is becoming more successful.”

“I told the players from the beginning that if we have success as a team then we will have our players get onto the Team of the Week,” said Trittschuh.  “Kevaughn deserved it after his performances.  It’s really good for our players individually.  I want them to do as well as they can and those awards can help with their confidence and people take notice.”

Conditions in Kansas City next week are predicted to be in the low 90’s, and after the disappointment of giving away the final-minute penalty against Phoenix Rising on Father’s Day, the Swope Park Rangers will no doubt be eagerly awaiting their first chance at facing the Switchbacks in 2017.  

“They’re good in attack and with the ball, and they defend well,” said Trittschuh.  “It will take a big effort from us to go in there and get the win.  So far this week since L.A. has been good for us – now we’re just looking for guys to give great effort on Wednesday.  It will be a very tough game.”

The Switchbacks will host Wednesday’s opponent on September 23rd at Weidner Field on Technology Night.  Saturday evening sees the beginning of the Switchbacks’ three-match home stand as high-flying San Antonio FC visit Colorado Springs in a showdown that will feature post-game fireworks. Tickets start at just $12 and are available here.

Switchbacks fans can look forward to an Independence Day celebration against the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros on July 1st in another game that will feature a post-game fireworks display.  The fourth Poster Giveaway Night, courtesy of Kneaders Bakers and Cafe will take place on July 8th when the Switchbacks welcome the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 to Weidner Field.

On Wednesday evening the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC will face off against the Swope Park Rangers for the first time in 2017.  Buoyed by their first two-match winning streak of the season, the Switchbacks will be looking to keep pace at the top of the USL’s Western Conference with a result at Children’s Mercy Victory Field in Kansas City, Missouri.

The Swope Park Rangers have started the current campaign in fine form at their home stadium.  All five of the Swope Park Rangers’ wins in USL play have come at Children’s Mercy Victory Field just outside the Kansas City Zoo.  San Antonio FC, who currently sit in second place in the Western Conference, are the only team to have emerged from the SPR’s home field with three points this season – courtesy of a 1-0 win on May 26th.

Midfielder Kévin Oliveira, fresh from having been called into the senior Cape Verde National Team for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Uganda on June 10th, scored the opening goal last night as SPR tied Phoenix Rising 2-2 at Children’s Mercy Victory Field.  Nigerian midfielder Nansel Selbol added a second for the Swope Park Rangers with a penalty kick, only for Phoenix Rising to score twice through their Ivorian superstar Didier Drogba.  Drogba’s second goal at the very end of the match – also from a penalty kick – came after SPR’s Amer Didic was whistled for a foul on Phoenix Rising FC forward Omar Bravo.  

Striker Mark Anthony Gonzalez is one of SPR’s hottest players after a stoppage-time double secured a 3-1 win over the Tulsa Roughnecks FC last Sunday evening at Children’s Mercy Victory Field.  Gonzalez was the Swope Park Rangers Offensive Player of the Year in 2016 after a 12-goal debut season.  A sensational 56th-minute thunderbolt strike from Cameron Iwasa started the scoring for SPR against the Roughnecks before Tulsa equalized through an Oumar Ballo own-goal after a driven Roughnecks cross.

Kharlton Belmar – whom the Switchbacks know from Belmar’s time playing with the USL’s Portland Timbers 2 – leads the Swope Park Rangers in scoring with four goals.  New Zealander James Musa can play across defense or in the heart of midfield for SPR, and goalkeeper Adrián Zendejas has impressed during his time in Kansas City.

“They’ll [Swope Park Rangers] show up to fight and come out to prove they’re a better team than us,” said Switchbacks defender Diego Gutierrez.  “Like any team in this league they’ll look to win at home – but we’re on a bit of a roll now.  It means a lot for us to have won two games in a row.  That’s what we’ve been working for.  The win in L.A. has left us all with a positive feeling and it gives guys hope and gives us all a great motivation.”

The Switchbacks defeated the L.A. Galaxy II by 2-1 on Saturday at the StubHub Center Track and Field Stadium in Carson, California after a stoppage-time winner from Kevaughn Frater.  Frater’s goal is the second last-gasp strike in as many weeks for the Switchbacks.  The Switchbacks defeated the OKC Energy 1-0 on June 3rd behind club captain Rony Argueta’s shot on the final kick of the match.  

“They’re a really good team – especially good on the ball,” said Masta Kacher when asked about the Swope Park Rangers.  “We must start the game mentally just as fast as in L.A. and try our best to get our third win in a row.  It’s the first time we’ve got two wins in a row this season and we really want to keep that going forward.  It’s huge to get another late win but we just have to build and start the second half of the season well and we can think about that after a good performance in K.C.”

“These last few games we’ve really kept going,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “We haven’t stopped attacking and pushing forward – the win in L.A. has really got the spirits of the players raised.  Of course we don’t want to keep having to get three points at the very end of games, but in the end, it’s good that we are winning like in L.A.  We have a long time but hopefully we can carry the performance from last weekend into K.C.”

Frater was named the USL’s Player of the Week after his two-goal performance against the Galaxy II, just seven days after Argueta found himself on the Team of the Week.

“He’s [Frater] been working hard and he’s created his own luck,” said Switchbacks Assistant Coach Wolde Harris.  “As long as he keeps working hopefully he’ll keep being noticed.  It gives the rest of the team confidence to see guys on the Team of Week.  It shows their efforts are being recognized and that what we’re doing is becoming more successful.”

“I told the players from the beginning that if we have success as a team then we will have our players get onto the Team of the Week,” said Trittschuh.  “Kevaughn deserved it after his performances.  It’s really good for our players individually.  I want them to do as well as they can and those awards can help with their confidence and people take notice.”

Conditions in Kansas City next week are predicted to be in the low 90’s, and after the disappointment of giving away the final-minute penalty against Phoenix Rising on Father’s Day, the Swope Park Rangers will no doubt be eagerly awaiting their first chance at facing the Switchbacks in 2017.  

“They’re good in attack and with the ball, and they defend well,” said Trittschuh.  “It will take a big effort from us to go in there and get the win.  So far this week since L.A. has been good for us – now we’re just looking for guys to give great effort on Wednesday.  It will be a very tough game.”

The Switchbacks will host Wednesday’s opponent on September 23rd at Weidner Field on Technology Night.  Saturday evening sees the beginning of the Switchbacks’ three-match home stand as high-flying San Antonio FC visit Colorado Springs in a showdown that will feature post-game fireworks. Tickets start at just $12 and are available here.

Switchbacks fans can look forward to an Independence Day celebration against the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros on July 1st in another game that will feature a post-game fireworks display.  The fourth Poster Giveaway Night, courtesy of Kneaders Bakers and Cafe will take place on July 8th when the Switchbacks welcome the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 to Weidner Field.