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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.