Vargish's View

He who seeks vengeance must remember to dig two graves: one for his enemy and one for himself.  – Chinese Proverb

Friday evening sees the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC host the Tulsa Roughnecks FC at Weidner Field with both teams looking to put their previous 2017 encounter in the rear-view mirror, albeit for vastly different reasons.

The Tulsa Roughnecks defeated the Switchbacks 4-1 in the opening fixture of the 2017 USL regular season, only for that result to be forfeited and awarded as a 3-0 victory to Steve Trittschuh’s side after the USL determined the Roughnecks had fielded an ineligible player.

“Tulsa are going to be hungry on Friday because of what happened in our first game,” said Trittschuh when asked about the March 25th encounter.  “We didn’t play well in that game and we know that; but we’re a much better team now.  We’ve got to play our game on Friday because we know how important these games at home are right now and that Tulsa will be motivated.”

This Friday’s match – where the first 500 fans at Weidner Field aged 21 and over will receive a free Switchbacks hat courtesy of the Pikes Peak Brewing Company – marks the first time the Switchbacks will play the same opponent in the young 2017 campaign.  

“It’s going to be interesting to play a team we’ve already played before this season,” said midfielder Eddy Prugh.  “If we keep doing what we’ve been doing it will all fall into place for us.  We won’t read too much into our game against Seattle – we know that result wasn’t what we’re about.  We’re just going to do what we’ve worked on and focus on Tulsa.”

Roughnecks’ left back Jorge Corrales will be suspended for Friday’s game against the Switchbacks, after the USL’s Independent Disciplinary Panel concluded his 55th minute yellow card offense in Tulsa’s 1-0 victory over RGV FC warranted a sending off.  Defender Francisco Ugarte enters Colorado Springs as a starter on the USL’s Team of the Week after a barnstorming performance helped the Roughnecks maintain their clean sheet against a determined RGV FC side.  

Argentine midfielder Juan Pablo Caffa previously made the USL Team of the Week after the game against the Switchbacks in late March.  Soccer fans in The Centennial State will be familiar with the Roughnecks’ Number 27, Kosuke Kimura, after the Japanese defender’s time with Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids.   

The Roughnecks have not played a competitive match since the aforementioned 1-0 victory at H-E-B Park in Edinburg, Texas against the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros on April 22nd.

“They [Tulsa] could be rusty or they could be well rested – it could go either way.  We are played-in and ready and we’ll be focusing this entire week on Friday’s game,” said Trittschuh after an intense Monday practice.  “We can’t worry about Tulsa – we have to just focus on ourselves and on our game.  We know Tulsa are a good, balanced team and David [Vaudreuil] has them playing well.  We need to just show up and play and fight.”

“Tulsa are a hard working team,” warned Switchbacks captain Rony Argueta.  “The guys they have in the middle of the field are tough.  We’ve got to come out and be better than we were against Seattle.  We need to keep the ball and make sure we go forward at the right time.”

Sub-zero wind-chill and driving sleet made conditions brutal as the ten-men Switchbacks fell 3-2 to the Seattle Sounders FC 2 last Saturday evening.  Switchbacks central defender Pascal Eboussi received a straight red card in the first half and will be suspended for Tulsa’s visit this Friday.  

“At eleven versus eleven we were doing very well and I thought we could have gone on to win the game,” said Trittschuh.  “But that’s behind us now and all our attention is on getting back to winning at home.”

“There are no excuses – not for the weather or the red card or anything,” said winger Masta Kacher.  “Tulsa are a good team and they have a bit of a revenge feeling too because of the first game.  We have to show our quality on Friday and not think about before [March 25th vs. Tulsa].  We should start like we did against Seattle and we know there are no excuses!  We know what we expect from Tulsa and we know also we can bring our level up.”

With the loss to the Sounders FC 2 behind the Switchbacks, there was a palpable motivation at Monday’s training session to right the wrong of the Week 1 loss to the Roughnecks – no matter the official result having ultimately gone in the favor of Friday’s home team after the USL’s investigation.  

From a Tulsa perspective one can only assume that the Roughnecks will enter Colorado Springs with a pinch of malevolence in their guts after the reversal of what could have been their first win of 2017.  

“We’ve got a solid week of rest and preparation ahead so we’ll be all ready on Friday,” insisted Rony Argueta, brushing off talk of a vengeful-rematch against the Roughnecks.  “We’re going to use this week to work hard at getting back to what makes us play at our best.”

ONEOK Field in Tulsa, Oklahoma will be the site of the final match of the 2017 regular season for both of Friday’s teams, as the Switchbacks will visit the Roughnecks on October 14th.  

The first 500 fans at Weidner Field aged 21 and over on Friday will receive a free Switchbacks hat courtesy of the Pikes Peak Brewing Company . Kickoff is at 7:00 P.M. Tickets start at just $12 are available here.

He who seeks vengeance must remember to dig two graves: one for his enemy and one for himself.  – Chinese Proverb

Friday evening sees the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC host the Tulsa Roughnecks FC at Weidner Field with both teams looking to put their previous 2017 encounter in the rear-view mirror, albeit for vastly different reasons.

The Tulsa Roughnecks defeated the Switchbacks 4-1 in the opening fixture of the 2017 USL regular season, only for that result to be forfeited and awarded as a 3-0 victory to Steve Trittschuh’s side after the USL determined the Roughnecks had fielded an ineligible player.

“Tulsa are going to be hungry on Friday because of what happened in our first game,” said Trittschuh when asked about the March 25th encounter.  “We didn’t play well in that game and we know that; but we’re a much better team now.  We’ve got to play our game on Friday because we know how important these games at home are right now and that Tulsa will be motivated.”

This Friday’s match – where the first 500 fans at Weidner Field aged 21 and over will receive a free Switchbacks hat courtesy of the Pikes Peak Brewing Company – marks the first time the Switchbacks will play the same opponent in the young 2017 campaign.  

“It’s going to be interesting to play a team we’ve already played before this season,” said midfielder Eddy Prugh.  “If we keep doing what we’ve been doing it will all fall into place for us.  We won’t read too much into our game against Seattle – we know that result wasn’t what we’re about.  We’re just going to do what we’ve worked on and focus on Tulsa.”

Roughnecks’ left back Jorge Corrales will be suspended for Friday’s game against the Switchbacks, after the USL’s Independent Disciplinary Panel concluded his 55th minute yellow card offense in Tulsa’s 1-0 victory over RGV FC warranted a sending off.  Defender Francisco Ugarte enters Colorado Springs as a starter on the USL’s Team of the Week after a barnstorming performance helped the Roughnecks maintain their clean sheet against a determined RGV FC side.  

Argentine midfielder Juan Pablo Caffa previously made the USL Team of the Week after the game against the Switchbacks in late March.  Soccer fans in The Centennial State will be familiar with the Roughnecks’ Number 27, Kosuke Kimura, after the Japanese defender’s time with Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids.   

The Roughnecks have not played a competitive match since the aforementioned 1-0 victory at H-E-B Park in Edinburg, Texas against the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros on April 22nd.

“They [Tulsa] could be rusty or they could be well rested – it could go either way.  We are played-in and ready and we’ll be focusing this entire week on Friday’s game,” said Trittschuh after an intense Monday practice.  “We can’t worry about Tulsa – we have to just focus on ourselves and on our game.  We know Tulsa are a good, balanced team and David [Vaudreuil] has them playing well.  We need to just show up and play and fight.”

“Tulsa are a hard working team,” warned Switchbacks captain Rony Argueta.  “The guys they have in the middle of the field are tough.  We’ve got to come out and be better than we were against Seattle.  We need to keep the ball and make sure we go forward at the right time.”

Sub-zero wind-chill and driving sleet made conditions brutal as the ten-men Switchbacks fell 3-2 to the Seattle Sounders FC 2 last Saturday evening.  Switchbacks central defender Pascal Eboussi received a straight red card in the first half and will be suspended for Tulsa’s visit this Friday.  

“At eleven versus eleven we were doing very well and I thought we could have gone on to win the game,” said Trittschuh.  “But that’s behind us now and all our attention is on getting back to winning at home.”

“There are no excuses – not for the weather or the red card or anything,” said winger Masta Kacher.  “Tulsa are a good team and they have a bit of a revenge feeling too because of the first game.  We have to show our quality on Friday and not think about before [March 25th vs. Tulsa].  We should start like we did against Seattle and we know there are no excuses!  We know what we expect from Tulsa and we know also we can bring our level up.”

With the loss to the Sounders FC 2 behind the Switchbacks, there was a palpable motivation at Monday’s training session to right the wrong of the Week 1 loss to the Roughnecks – no matter the official result having ultimately gone in the favor of Friday’s home team after the USL’s investigation.  

From a Tulsa perspective one can only assume that the Roughnecks will enter Colorado Springs with a pinch of malevolence in their guts after the reversal of what could have been their first win of 2017.  

“We’ve got a solid week of rest and preparation ahead so we’ll be all ready on Friday,” insisted Rony Argueta, brushing off talk of a vengeful-rematch against the Roughnecks.  “We’re going to use this week to work hard at getting back to what makes us play at our best.”

ONEOK Field in Tulsa, Oklahoma will be the site of the final match of the 2017 regular season for both of Friday’s teams, as the Switchbacks will visit the Roughnecks on October 14th.  

The first 500 fans at Weidner Field aged 21 and over on Friday will receive a free Switchbacks hat courtesy of the Pikes Peak Brewing Company . Kickoff is at 7:00 P.M. Tickets start at just $12 are available here.

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC begin a two-game homestand this Saturday as they welcome the Seattle Sounders FC 2 to Weidner Field on Poster Giveaway Night.

A last-gasp Shane Malcolm equalizer in stoppage time gave the Switchbacks a vital road point against Reno 1868 FC last Saturday at Greater Nevada Field in The Biggest Little City in the World.  Jordan Burt opened the scoring for the Switchbacks with a bullet header just before the hour mark after Josh Phillips expertly redirected the Switchbacks’ corner kick towards Burt.  

“I’m happy to score – it felt good to get the first one out of the way,” said Burt on Tuesday afternoon.  “I didn’t have to do much, to be honest.  [Josh] Suggs put in a great ball from the corner and I just put it away!”

Trailing twice against expansion side Reno 1868 FC, the Switchbacks were able to fight back and leave the Silver State with their heads held high in a performance that Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh praised: “I felt that we played well in the first half.  We were better with our ball possession which is what we need to see.  There were four chances that we created and should have scored.  We just need more composure on the ball and to take those chances.  Against Reno [1868 FC] it was the first time we’ve come back to get a point this season and the guys – all the guys – showed great character and it gives us a lot of confidence for this homestand that’s coming up.”

The Seattle Sounders FC 2 will make their way to Colorado Springs after back-to-back home losses at the Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila, Washington.  A 3-1 defeat at the hands of the Real Monarchs SLC on April 22nd was followed by a narrow 3-2 loss to San Antonio FC on Tuesday evening.    

With a roster full of enthusiastic talent, S2 are the USL’s representative of the reigning MLS Cup Champions, the Seattle Sounders FC.

“Seattle are always young and they always bring a good energy,” said Switchbacks captain Rony Argueta.  “They play their style and that’s passed down from the first team.  Coach [Tittschuh] has been watching them and preparing us and we’re ready to have a strong week of practice before Saturday.”

As an example of S2’s extreme youth policy, 15-year-old Azriel Gonzalez made his USL debut in Tuesday’s loss to San Antonio FC, although the youngster’s debut ended ignominiously as he was shown a red card for a lunging challenge in stoppage time, thus ruling him out of Saturday’s game at Weidner Field.

“Watching Seattle you see their quality this season just as we have in the past,” said Trittschuh.  “I actually like to compare them to us; they try to possess and get their outside backs forward and play quickly.  They’re a young team with talented homegrown players but it will be their third game in a week so we’ve got to make sure we start the game strong.”

S2 midfielder Zach Mathers – a collegiate standout at Duke University – leads his club in goals after picking up his second of the season in Tuesday’s loss to San Antonio FC.  Homegrown striker David Olsen could be tasked with leading S2’s attack against the Switchbacks, while midfielder Ray Saari has impressed early in 2017 for S2.  Panamanian international Francisco Narbón, who saw previous USL action with FC Cincinnati, brings experience to the Sounders 2, despite being just 22 years old.

“We expect a battle as always against Seattle,” said Switchbacks midfielder Luke Vercollone.  “They’re a competitive group who want to win just like us and they’ve got a good young energy and talent on their team.”

With a late-spring storm on the horizon in Colorado Springs, conditions for Saturday’s match at Weidner Field could play even more of a factor in Saturday’s match.  The second of a five-part poster giveaway – this weekend sponsored by Weidner Apartment Homes – will be distributed before kickoff to the Switchbacks faithful at Weidner Field, who are no doubt accustomed to a little inclement April weather after multiple snow-games in seasons past.

“It’s going to be good to be home and good to be in front of our fans,” said Rony Argueta.  “We need two wins for our confidence and that’s our focus.  We’re actually hoping the weather gets a little nasty to be honest because we’re used to it and it will be an advantage for us and we’ve proved that before.”

“The weather doesn’t affect us,” declared Trittschuh.  “We’ll train outside all week in the weather just so there are no questions on Saturday and whatever happens we’ll look forward to it.”

The Switchbacks will host the Sounders FC 2 at Weidner Field again on Saturday, July 29th in Colorado Springs before finishing the season series at the Starfire Sports Complex in the Great Pacific Northwest on Saturday, September 16th.  

“We always play well at home and it’s our job to keep that going this weekend,” said Vercollone.  “We’re just waiting to hit our best form and we really hope these home games will give us the momentum to hit our stride.”

The first 500 fans in attendance at Saturday's match will receive the second piece to the puzzle of the poster series courtesy of Weidner Apartment Homes. Kickoff is at 6:00 P.M. and tickets can be purchased here.

Vercollone’s Switchbacks will round out their homestand with a Friday night match against the Tulsa Roughnecks FC on May 5th at 7:00 P.M. The first 500 fans in attendance will receive a Switchbacks cap courtesy of Pikes Peak Brewing. Tickets can be purchased here.

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC begin a two-game homestand this Saturday as they welcome the Seattle Sounders FC 2 to Weidner Field on Poster Giveaway Night.

A last-gasp Shane Malcolm equalizer in stoppage time gave the Switchbacks a vital road point against Reno 1868 FC last Saturday at Greater Nevada Field in The Biggest Little City in the World.  Jordan Burt opened the scoring for the Switchbacks with a bullet header just before the hour mark after Josh Phillips expertly redirected the Switchbacks’ corner kick towards Burt.  

“I’m happy to score – it felt good to get the first one out of the way,” said Burt on Tuesday afternoon.  “I didn’t have to do much, to be honest.  [Josh] Suggs put in a great ball from the corner and I just put it away!”

Trailing twice against expansion side Reno 1868 FC, the Switchbacks were able to fight back and leave the Silver State with their heads held high in a performance that Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh praised: “I felt that we played well in the first half.  We were better with our ball possession which is what we need to see.  There were four chances that we created and should have scored.  We just need more composure on the ball and to take those chances.  Against Reno [1868 FC] it was the first time we’ve come back to get a point this season and the guys – all the guys – showed great character and it gives us a lot of confidence for this homestand that’s coming up.”

The Seattle Sounders FC 2 will make their way to Colorado Springs after back-to-back home losses at the Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila, Washington.  A 3-1 defeat at the hands of the Real Monarchs SLC on April 22nd was followed by a narrow 3-2 loss to San Antonio FC on Tuesday evening.    

With a roster full of enthusiastic talent, S2 are the USL’s representative of the reigning MLS Cup Champions, the Seattle Sounders FC.

“Seattle are always young and they always bring a good energy,” said Switchbacks captain Rony Argueta.  “They play their style and that’s passed down from the first team.  Coach [Tittschuh] has been watching them and preparing us and we’re ready to have a strong week of practice before Saturday.”

As an example of S2’s extreme youth policy, 15-year-old Azriel Gonzalez made his USL debut in Tuesday’s loss to San Antonio FC, although the youngster’s debut ended ignominiously as he was shown a red card for a lunging challenge in stoppage time, thus ruling him out of Saturday’s game at Weidner Field.

“Watching Seattle you see their quality this season just as we have in the past,” said Trittschuh.  “I actually like to compare them to us; they try to possess and get their outside backs forward and play quickly.  They’re a young team with talented homegrown players but it will be their third game in a week so we’ve got to make sure we start the game strong.”

S2 midfielder Zach Mathers – a collegiate standout at Duke University – leads his club in goals after picking up his second of the season in Tuesday’s loss to San Antonio FC.  Homegrown striker David Olsen could be tasked with leading S2’s attack against the Switchbacks, while midfielder Ray Saari has impressed early in 2017 for S2.  Panamanian international Francisco Narbón, who saw previous USL action with FC Cincinnati, brings experience to the Sounders 2, despite being just 22 years old.

“We expect a battle as always against Seattle,” said Switchbacks midfielder Luke Vercollone.  “They’re a competitive group who want to win just like us and they’ve got a good young energy and talent on their team.”

With a late-spring storm on the horizon in Colorado Springs, conditions for Saturday’s match at Weidner Field could play even more of a factor in Saturday’s match.  The second of a five-part poster giveaway – this weekend sponsored by Weidner Apartment Homes – will be distributed before kickoff to the Switchbacks faithful at Weidner Field, who are no doubt accustomed to a little inclement April weather after multiple snow-games in seasons past.

“It’s going to be good to be home and good to be in front of our fans,” said Rony Argueta.  “We need two wins for our confidence and that’s our focus.  We’re actually hoping the weather gets a little nasty to be honest because we’re used to it and it will be an advantage for us and we’ve proved that before.”

“The weather doesn’t affect us,” declared Trittschuh.  “We’ll train outside all week in the weather just so there are no questions on Saturday and whatever happens we’ll look forward to it.”

The Switchbacks will host the Sounders FC 2 at Weidner Field again on Saturday, July 29th in Colorado Springs before finishing the season series at the Starfire Sports Complex in the Great Pacific Northwest on Saturday, September 16th.  

“We always play well at home and it’s our job to keep that going this weekend,” said Vercollone.  “We’re just waiting to hit our best form and we really hope these home games will give us the momentum to hit our stride.”

The first 500 fans in attendance at Saturday’s match will receive the second piece to the puzzle of the poster series courtesy of Weidner Apartment Homes. Kickoff is at 6:00 P.M. and tickets can be purchased here.

Vercollone’s Switchbacks will round out their homestand with a Friday night match against the Tulsa Roughnecks FC on May 5th at 7:00 P.M. The first 500 fans in attendance will receive a Switchbacks cap courtesy of Pikes Peak Brewing. Tickets can be purchased here.

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC return to Weidner Field on Saturday evening as they host their Rocky Mountain rivals, the red-hot Real Monarchs of Salt Lake City.  

Saturday marks the second match in just four days for the Switchbacks – and their third in nine days.  

As has always been the way of soccer in Sandy, Utah, the Real Monarchs are a team predicated on possession.  What’s changed with the 2017 Monarchs is their ability to clinically finish the numerous chances their possession creates.  

“They’re [Real Monarchs] a different team than they have been,” confirmed Switchbacks head coach Steve Trittschuh following Monday’s practice at Weidner Field.  “They no longer keep the ball just to keep it – now they have the ability to open teams up with direct passes and we’re going to have to be at our best to limit their game.”

Multiple familiar faces could be on show on Saturday evening for the Monarchs, with none more so than former Switchbacks striker Chandler Hoffman.  Hoffman played for the Switchbacks in 2015 while on-loan from Major League Soccer’s Houston Dynamo.  

“Chandler moves well off the ball,” said Trittschuh.  “He’s sneaky and he’s tough to mark, but our players know him well from his time here.”

Midfielder Nick Besler, the younger brother of U.S. Men’s National Team defender Matt Besler, has seen time against the Switchbacks in the past as a member of the Portland Timbers 2.  Canadian striker Daniel Haber is another member of the Real Monarchs who is familiar with the Switchbacks, as the elusive forward spent the 2016 season with the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2.  Haber started for the Whitecaps FC 2 in their 2-1 Conference Quarterfinal victory over the Switchbacks in Colorado Springs on September 30th, 2016.  

Texas native Chase Minter is yet another player who could bring his USL experience to Weidner Field on Saturday for the Monarchs, with the midfielder having previously represented both Sacramento Republic FC and the Tulsa Roughnecks.

Diminutive Colombian midfielder Sebastián Velásquez, fresh off being named to the USL’s Team of the Week, enters Colorado Springs after a whirlwind man-of-the-match performance that saw him notch a goal and an assist in the Monarchs’ 5-3 victory over Reno 1868 FC on April 6th.

“Velásquez is a really good, top quality player,” said Trittschuh.  “We don’t focus on denying him the ball – we can’t because we know he’ll get his touches.  But we must deny him chances in the final third because that’s where he can hurt any team.”

Real Monarchs SLC head coach Mark Briggs, who took over for Mike Petke at the end of March, is perfect in his two games in charge of the Monarchs.  Petke was promoted to the head coaching position with Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake – the parent club of the Monarchs.

The Switchbacks return to Colorado Springs after a journey to Texas that saw everything short of a hurricane affect their travel and preparation.  “It was a nightmare,” declared Trittschuh on Monday.  “Our flight to Houston was delayed, then because of storms we were rerouted to San Antonio where we had just played, and in the end, we didn’t get into Rio Grande Valley [Edinburg, Texas] until midnight…but those are excuses and we’ve told the players that we can’t keep making them.  We have to have a short memory and if we don’t have individual mistakes we’ll be fine – we’ve been killing ourselves and putting ourselves behind in games.  That stops now.”

Despite the extra rest afforded to the Real Monarchs, not a single Switchbacks player made any excuses related to the Texas travel.  “Being back at home gives us a huge boost,” said central defender Josh Phillips.  “Sleeping in our own beds and being in our home city gives us all we need to get back on the right track on Saturday.  We’re ready to fight in front of our home fans – issues always happen on the road, but now we’re home, we’re in control and Colorado Springs is where we have to win.”

“It’s a quick turnaround for us, but that’s all mental and we won’t and aren’t making any excuses,” said Switchbacks captain Rony Argueta.  “We must focus on our game and we all know and can feel that we are progressing well.”

“We have to have short-term memory – we can’t dwell on one thing or one loss,” said forward Shane Malcolm, echoing the sentiments of his head coach.  “We gave up soft goals and we know that and we’re working hard to fix it, but for Saturday we are refocused and ready.  We hope the weather stays like this for tomorrow because it helps and the fans that come out will push us a lot.”

The only visiting USL team that can legitimately say they’re prepared for the altitude of Weidner Field, the Real Monarchs SLC will enter Saturday’s match fresh from having more than a week off after scoring 5 goals against Reno 1868 FC.  But soccer matches aren’t played on whiteboards or on league stat sheets.  

Saturday evening’s game will be contested by a group of Switchbacks players who are so focused and motivated to right the wrong of the 3-1 loss to RGV FC that it practically took a winch to pull the players off the Weidner Field surface almost an hour after practice was scheduled to finish.

“The time is now to put what we’ve been working on into action.  We’ve got to go out, work hard, and get the 3 points,” said a succinct Switchbacks assistant coach Wolde Harris, who as always was front and center during Friday’s training session.  “We have to learn from the mistakes we’ve made and we’ve got to move quickly to eliminate those from our game.  Psychologically we must come prepared to execute what we need to, keep up our level of communication, and know that keeping the game compact defensively will be key for us on Saturday.”

The Switchbacks will return to USL action at Weidner Field on April 29th as the Seattle Sounders FC 2 visit Colorado Springs.

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC return to Weidner Field on Saturday evening as they host their Rocky Mountain rivals, the red-hot Real Monarchs of Salt Lake City.  

Saturday marks the second match in just four days for the Switchbacks – and their third in nine days.  

As has always been the way of soccer in Sandy, Utah, the Real Monarchs are a team predicated on possession.  What’s changed with the 2017 Monarchs is their ability to clinically finish the numerous chances their possession creates.  

“They’re [Real Monarchs] a different team than they have been,” confirmed Switchbacks head coach Steve Trittschuh following Monday’s practice at Weidner Field.  “They no longer keep the ball just to keep it – now they have the ability to open teams up with direct passes and we’re going to have to be at our best to limit their game.”

Multiple familiar faces could be on show on Saturday evening for the Monarchs, with none more so than former Switchbacks striker Chandler Hoffman.  Hoffman played for the Switchbacks in 2015 while on-loan from Major League Soccer’s Houston Dynamo.  

“Chandler moves well off the ball,” said Trittschuh.  “He’s sneaky and he’s tough to mark, but our players know him well from his time here.”

Midfielder Nick Besler, the younger brother of U.S. Men’s National Team defender Matt Besler, has seen time against the Switchbacks in the past as a member of the Portland Timbers 2.  Canadian striker Daniel Haber is another member of the Real Monarchs who is familiar with the Switchbacks, as the elusive forward spent the 2016 season with the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2.  Haber started for the Whitecaps FC 2 in their 2-1 Conference Quarterfinal victory over the Switchbacks in Colorado Springs on September 30th, 2016.  

Texas native Chase Minter is yet another player who could bring his USL experience to Weidner Field on Saturday for the Monarchs, with the midfielder having previously represented both Sacramento Republic FC and the Tulsa Roughnecks.

Diminutive Colombian midfielder Sebastián Velásquez, fresh off being named to the USL’s Team of the Week, enters Colorado Springs after a whirlwind man-of-the-match performance that saw him notch a goal and an assist in the Monarchs’ 5-3 victory over Reno 1868 FC on April 6th.

“Velásquez is a really good, top quality player,” said Trittschuh.  “We don’t focus on denying him the ball – we can’t because we know he’ll get his touches.  But we must deny him chances in the final third because that’s where he can hurt any team.”

Real Monarchs SLC head coach Mark Briggs, who took over for Mike Petke at the end of March, is perfect in his two games in charge of the Monarchs.  Petke was promoted to the head coaching position with Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake – the parent club of the Monarchs.

The Switchbacks return to Colorado Springs after a journey to Texas that saw everything short of a hurricane affect their travel and preparation.  “It was a nightmare,” declared Trittschuh on Monday.  “Our flight to Houston was delayed, then because of storms we were rerouted to San Antonio where we had just played, and in the end, we didn’t get into Rio Grande Valley [Edinburg, Texas] until midnight…but those are excuses and we’ve told the players that we can’t keep making them.  We have to have a short memory and if we don’t have individual mistakes we’ll be fine – we’ve been killing ourselves and putting ourselves behind in games.  That stops now.”

Despite the extra rest afforded to the Real Monarchs, not a single Switchbacks player made any excuses related to the Texas travel.  “Being back at home gives us a huge boost,” said central defender Josh Phillips.  “Sleeping in our own beds and being in our home city gives us all we need to get back on the right track on Saturday.  We’re ready to fight in front of our home fans – issues always happen on the road, but now we’re home, we’re in control and Colorado Springs is where we have to win.”

“It’s a quick turnaround for us, but that’s all mental and we won’t and aren’t making any excuses,” said Switchbacks captain Rony Argueta.  “We must focus on our game and we all know and can feel that we are progressing well.”

“We have to have short-term memory – we can’t dwell on one thing or one loss,” said forward Shane Malcolm, echoing the sentiments of his head coach.  “We gave up soft goals and we know that and we’re working hard to fix it, but for Saturday we are refocused and ready.  We hope the weather stays like this for tomorrow because it helps and the fans that come out will push us a lot.”

The only visiting USL team that can legitimately say they’re prepared for the altitude of Weidner Field, the Real Monarchs SLC will enter Saturday’s match fresh from having more than a week off after scoring 5 goals against Reno 1868 FC.  But soccer matches aren’t played on whiteboards or on league stat sheets.  

Saturday evening’s game will be contested by a group of Switchbacks players who are so focused and motivated to right the wrong of the 3-1 loss to RGV FC that it practically took a winch to pull the players off the Weidner Field surface almost an hour after practice was scheduled to finish.

“The time is now to put what we’ve been working on into action.  We’ve got to go out, work hard, and get the 3 points,” said a succinct Switchbacks assistant coach Wolde Harris, who as always was front and center during Friday’s training session.  “We have to learn from the mistakes we’ve made and we’ve got to move quickly to eliminate those from our game.  Psychologically we must come prepared to execute what we need to, keep up our level of communication, and know that keeping the game compact defensively will be key for us on Saturday.”

The Switchbacks will return to USL action at Weidner Field on April 29th as the Seattle Sounders FC 2 visit Colorado Springs.

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC roll into Edinburg, Texas for a midweek match against the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros on Wednesday evening fresh from an impressive 1-1 draw on Saturday against San Antonio FC.

A 12th minute goal from Switchbacks striker Aaron King seemed destined to seal all three points for the visitors at Toyota Field in San Antonio, Texas, before a late, wicked Kris Tyrpak equalizer left honors even.

King’s sumptuous finish came after an outrageous piece of skill that saw the veteran striker leave the San Antonio FC defense in his wake.  “I was just trying to have a positive touch towards goal,” said a modest King on Sunday.  “All the credit has to go to Kimmy [Taesong Kim] for such a crafty ball to find me.  Luckily I was able to get my hips turned and put the ball away.  The goal gives me confidence, but I’m just trying to stay composed right now – not get too excited when things personally go well, and keep focused when things are down.  Seeing it go in was great, but all I want today is to give Kimmy the love for finding me.  His diving header was perfect!”

“I really liked the attitude in the locker room after the game,” said Switchbacks head coach Steve Trittschuh.  “Of course we didn’t like giving up the goal, but it was very positive after the tie in San Antonio and we can see that the team is now starting to play with more confidence.  We’ve improved in every game we’ve played and we will take that feeling into Rio Grande Valley against a team that’s going to be full of confidence themselves.”

RGV FC return home for Wednesday’s clash at H-E-B Park after notching their first points of the 2017 season in a 1-0 victory against the Oklahoma City Energy FC at Taft Stadium in Oklahoma’s capital city on Saturday.  Mexican striker Rubén Luna calmly slotted home a 67th minute penalty after teammate Camilo Monroy was unceremoniously hauled down in the box.  

Monroy, a pacey 18-year-old striker from Itagüí, Colombia, made his way to RGV FC via the Houston Dynamo after honing his skills with Colombian powerhouse América de Cali.  Rio Grande Valley FC are the USL affiliate of MLS’ Houston Dynamo.  

RGV FC defender Victor Garza was shown a straight red card in the 84th minute against the OKC Energy FC after a lunging tackle on Energy midfielder Coy Craft, which rules Garza ineligible for Wednesday’s match against the Switchbacks.

Birmingham, England born Charlie Ward, once on the books of English Premier League outfit Stoke City, pulls the strings in the center of the park for RGV FC and will no doubt be key to the Toros’ attacking success.  Yet to find the net at H-E-B Park in 2017, the Toros will rely on Ward to be the conductor of an offensive unit that the Switchbacks will be hoping doesn’t find its feet on Wednesday.

“All around they [RGV FC] are a good, organized team and we’re going to have to be careful with their young forwards,” warned Trittschuh.  “They’ve had success playing their style of game, and they’ve got a lot of good, hungry, young players.  They went into OKC and got the 3 points so we know Wednesday won’t be an easy game.”

Conditions for Wednesday’s match on the USA-Mexico border are forecast to be in the high 80’s, although after an August trip to Edinburg, Texas in the 2016 season, the Switchbacks are looking forward to slightly more bearable weather this season.

“Physically the travel can have an impact on us, but mentally it’s out of our minds and we are working hard as you can see,” said midfielder Luke Vercollone after an intense Sunday afternoon training session in the altitude and wind of the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs.  “It’s good for us go play in Texas now – it can be a lot more challenging in the humidity later in the year as we know from last season.”

Vercollone, who captained the Switchbacks for the team’s first two seasons, has found his role changed early in the 2017 campaign.  So far called upon as a substitute, Vercollone will be pushing for a place in the starting XI against RGV FC.  

“I just stay positive and keep supporting every member of this team no matter what I’m asked to do,” said Vercollone.  “Sometimes it’s personally not easy to look on, but that’s why we’re professionals and we all support each other and we all fight for every win.  It’s always good to play and it’s about always being ready when you’re called.”

“We’ll decide on Wednesday who will start,” said Trittschuh when asked about possible squad rotation for what will be the Switchbacks’ second of three games in just nine days.  “The other night in San Antonio the weather was great and the surface was perfect and our players feed off being able to play in those conditions and in front of a loud stadium.  Our guys step up every time in front of a big road crowd and we’ll look for that again on Wednesday.  No matter who plays we know we’ll be ready.”

The Switchbacks will return to action at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs on Saturday the 15th as they welcome the Real Monarchs SLC at 6 p.m. MT.  

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC roll into Edinburg, Texas for a midweek match against the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros on Wednesday evening fresh from an impressive 1-1 draw on Saturday against San Antonio FC.

A 12th minute goal from Switchbacks striker Aaron King seemed destined to seal all three points for the visitors at Toyota Field in San Antonio, Texas, before a late, wicked Kris Tyrpak equalizer left honors even.

King’s sumptuous finish came after an outrageous piece of skill that saw the veteran striker leave the San Antonio FC defense in his wake.  “I was just trying to have a positive touch towards goal,” said a modest King on Sunday.  “All the credit has to go to Kimmy [Taesong Kim] for such a crafty ball to find me.  Luckily I was able to get my hips turned and put the ball away.  The goal gives me confidence, but I’m just trying to stay composed right now – not get too excited when things personally go well, and keep focused when things are down.  Seeing it go in was great, but all I want today is to give Kimmy the love for finding me.  His diving header was perfect!”

“I really liked the attitude in the locker room after the game,” said Switchbacks head coach Steve Trittschuh.  “Of course we didn’t like giving up the goal, but it was very positive after the tie in San Antonio and we can see that the team is now starting to play with more confidence.  We’ve improved in every game we’ve played and we will take that feeling into Rio Grande Valley against a team that’s going to be full of confidence themselves.”

RGV FC return home for Wednesday’s clash at H-E-B Park after notching their first points of the 2017 season in a 1-0 victory against the Oklahoma City Energy FC at Taft Stadium in Oklahoma’s capital city on Saturday.  Mexican striker Rubén Luna calmly slotted home a 67th minute penalty after teammate Camilo Monroy was unceremoniously hauled down in the box.  

Monroy, a pacey 18-year-old striker from Itagüí, Colombia, made his way to RGV FC via the Houston Dynamo after honing his skills with Colombian powerhouse América de Cali.  Rio Grande Valley FC are the USL affiliate of MLS’ Houston Dynamo.  

RGV FC defender Victor Garza was shown a straight red card in the 84th minute against the OKC Energy FC after a lunging tackle on Energy midfielder Coy Craft, which rules Garza ineligible for Wednesday’s match against the Switchbacks.

Birmingham, England born Charlie Ward, once on the books of English Premier League outfit Stoke City, pulls the strings in the center of the park for RGV FC and will no doubt be key to the Toros’ attacking success.  Yet to find the net at H-E-B Park in 2017, the Toros will rely on Ward to be the conductor of an offensive unit that the Switchbacks will be hoping doesn’t find its feet on Wednesday.

“All around they [RGV FC] are a good, organized team and we’re going to have to be careful with their young forwards,” warned Trittschuh.  “They’ve had success playing their style of game, and they’ve got a lot of good, hungry, young players.  They went into OKC and got the 3 points so we know Wednesday won’t be an easy game.”

Conditions for Wednesday’s match on the USA-Mexico border are forecast to be in the high 80’s, although after an August trip to Edinburg, Texas in the 2016 season, the Switchbacks are looking forward to slightly more bearable weather this season.

“Physically the travel can have an impact on us, but mentally it’s out of our minds and we are working hard as you can see,” said midfielder Luke Vercollone after an intense Sunday afternoon training session in the altitude and wind of the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs.  “It’s good for us go play in Texas now – it can be a lot more challenging in the humidity later in the year as we know from last season.”

Vercollone, who captained the Switchbacks for the team’s first two seasons, has found his role changed early in the 2017 campaign.  So far called upon as a substitute, Vercollone will be pushing for a place in the starting XI against RGV FC.  

“I just stay positive and keep supporting every member of this team no matter what I’m asked to do,” said Vercollone.  “Sometimes it’s personally not easy to look on, but that’s why we’re professionals and we all support each other and we all fight for every win.  It’s always good to play and it’s about always being ready when you’re called.”

“We’ll decide on Wednesday who will start,” said Trittschuh when asked about possible squad rotation for what will be the Switchbacks’ second of three games in just nine days.  “The other night in San Antonio the weather was great and the surface was perfect and our players feed off being able to play in those conditions and in front of a loud stadium.  Our guys step up every time in front of a big road crowd and we’ll look for that again on Wednesday.  No matter who plays we know we’ll be ready.”

The Switchbacks will return to action at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs on Saturday the 15th as they welcome the Real Monarchs SLC at 6 p.m. MT.  

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC begin a stretch of three matches in just nine days on Friday evening as they visit Toyota Field and highflying San Antonio FC.  

Monday saw the USL officially award the Switchbacks’ opening round match of the 2017 season as a 3-0 victory – after it was determined the Tulsa Roughnecks fielded an ineligible player in the match that ended in a 4-1 Roughnecks victory on March 25th.

The USL’s confirmation of the result reversal sees the Switchbacks vault into 5th place in the Western Conference, two points behind San Antonio FC.   

Back-to-back victories – against the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros and Los Angeles Galaxy II, respectively – has seen San Antonio FC start 2017 in near-perfect fashion.  An impressive 1-0 road victory against RGVFC was followed by a 3-0 thumping of the Galaxy II at Toyota Field in San Antonio.

“San Antonio are a good, organized and disciplined team,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “They’re flying high right now and they looked solid versus L.A. [Galaxy II] on Saturday.  As a team we have got to be better if we want to get a result against them.  I told the guys to bring up their intensity this week in practice and we’ll see just how much we’re able to improve because we will need to if we want to get the result down there.”

Playing in a wide attacking position for San Antonio FC is USL veteran Kris Tyrpak – a name that Switchbacks fans will know after Tyrpak’s goal-scoring exploits for the Swope Park Rangers in 2016 and Austin Aztex during the Switchbacks’ inaugural season of 2015.   

Nigerian-born defender Sebastian Ibeagha, brother of former Switchbacks center back Christian Ibeagha, played all 90 minutes in the impressive victory against the Galaxy II and will no doubt keep his place at the heart of the San Antonio defense on Friday.  Ibeagha was awarded a place on the USL’s Team of the Week after his Week 1 performance against RGVFC, with teammate and fellow defender Greg Cochrane also catching the eye with solid performances in both of San Antonio’s victories.

Four different scorers have accounted for San Antonio’s goals this season, while local goalkeeper and beard-enthusiast Matt Cardone has expertly marshaled their defense through the first two matches.  Cardone, a collegiate star with San Antonio’s Trinity University Tigers, is yet to give up a goal in 2017.

Tenacious midfielder Billy Forbes is coming off a whirlwind performance against the Galaxy that saw Forbes named a starter on the USL’s Team of the Week.   

“They have really good players – we all know that and we’ve been studying up on them.  But we’ve improved over the last two games and right now we’re trying to make sure we’re all at our best for Friday,” said Switchbacks captain Rony Argueta.  “We keep building confidence but we all have to be smart with the travel coming up because that’s going to be a test.  As always it’s about being smart with our preparation and keeping our focus – in the game and also this week.  We know we are going to face a tough team in San Antonio in a big stadium and it’s going to take all our strength to get points.”

The Switchbacks will return to Colorado Springs after the 750-mile trip to San Antonio, before making the almost 1000 mile journey to Edinburg, Texas for the midweek matchup against RGVFC on Wednesday, April 12th.  

“It’s always fun to go there and play – it’s a great stadium with a great field and we know our guys will feed off that,” said Head Coach Trittschuh.  “Physically it’s going to be hard because we’re flying back for 2 days before going back to Texas for Rio Grande.  I hope the players will be able to get their legs back under them, but we just focus on San Antonio now.”

“Dealing with the travel is nothing more than being a professional,” said goalkeeper Dan Jackson.  “We’ve all traveled these distances before and the second you step on the field you know we’re there for one reason; three points.  It all comes down to focus and preparation before we travel and I know we’ll work on that all week here.”

Jackson started in the Switchbacks’ 1-1 tie with the Oklahoma City Energy FC at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs last Saturday, with the University of Denver product producing a brilliant first-half save that kept the Switchbacks level.  

“Dan stood strong on Saturday,” said Trittschuh.  “I’m still not happy with the goal we gave up, but then Dan made a great save for us!”

Winger Masta Kacher gave the Switchbacks the lead against OKC with a devilishly curling and dipping strike that seems destined to be named the USL’s Goal of the Week.  

“Personally the goal helps me, but I want to help the team more on defense and help my teammates and make sure we all get more touches of the ball,” said Kacher after a frigid Monday training session in Colorado Springs.  “We go in to Texas confident but we need to show that in our practice this week also.  We have to continue this week to work hard – that’s how we build confidence.”

With more than half the Switchbacks’ roster comprised of new additions, growing pains were inevitable early in the 2017 season.  But with 4 points from their opening two matches, the Switchbacks have a solid foundation with which to go into the Texas two-step against San Antonio FC and Rio Grande Valley FC.

“People feel more comfortable and our communication is helping with improving the good relationships that are starting to form on the field,” said Dan Jackson.  “I think the team is coming together quickly and I really like to see the new players looking after each other.  San Antonio will be tough, but with the work we’re putting in we’ll be ready.”

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC begin a stretch of three matches in just nine days on Friday evening as they visit Toyota Field and highflying San Antonio FC.  

Monday saw the USL officially award the Switchbacks’ opening round match of the 2017 season as a 3-0 victory – after it was determined the Tulsa Roughnecks fielded an ineligible player in the match that ended in a 4-1 Roughnecks victory on March 25th.

The USL’s confirmation of the result reversal sees the Switchbacks vault into 5th place in the Western Conference, two points behind San Antonio FC.   

Back-to-back victories – against the Rio Grande Valley FC Toros and Los Angeles Galaxy II, respectively – has seen San Antonio FC start 2017 in near-perfect fashion.  An impressive 1-0 road victory against RGVFC was followed by a 3-0 thumping of the Galaxy II at Toyota Field in San Antonio.

“San Antonio are a good, organized and disciplined team,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “They’re flying high right now and they looked solid versus L.A. [Galaxy II] on Saturday.  As a team we have got to be better if we want to get a result against them.  I told the guys to bring up their intensity this week in practice and we’ll see just how much we’re able to improve because we will need to if we want to get the result down there.”

Playing in a wide attacking position for San Antonio FC is USL veteran Kris Tyrpak – a name that Switchbacks fans will know after Tyrpak’s goal-scoring exploits for the Swope Park Rangers in 2016 and Austin Aztex during the Switchbacks’ inaugural season of 2015.   

Nigerian-born defender Sebastian Ibeagha, brother of former Switchbacks center back Christian Ibeagha, played all 90 minutes in the impressive victory against the Galaxy II and will no doubt keep his place at the heart of the San Antonio defense on Friday.  Ibeagha was awarded a place on the USL’s Team of the Week after his Week 1 performance against RGVFC, with teammate and fellow defender Greg Cochrane also catching the eye with solid performances in both of San Antonio’s victories.

Four different scorers have accounted for San Antonio’s goals this season, while local goalkeeper and beard-enthusiast Matt Cardone has expertly marshaled their defense through the first two matches.  Cardone, a collegiate star with San Antonio’s Trinity University Tigers, is yet to give up a goal in 2017.

Tenacious midfielder Billy Forbes is coming off a whirlwind performance against the Galaxy that saw Forbes named a starter on the USL’s Team of the Week.   

“They have really good players – we all know that and we’ve been studying up on them.  But we’ve improved over the last two games and right now we’re trying to make sure we’re all at our best for Friday,” said Switchbacks captain Rony Argueta.  “We keep building confidence but we all have to be smart with the travel coming up because that’s going to be a test.  As always it’s about being smart with our preparation and keeping our focus – in the game and also this week.  We know we are going to face a tough team in San Antonio in a big stadium and it’s going to take all our strength to get points.”

The Switchbacks will return to Colorado Springs after the 750-mile trip to San Antonio, before making the almost 1000 mile journey to Edinburg, Texas for the midweek matchup against RGVFC on Wednesday, April 12th.  

“It’s always fun to go there and play – it’s a great stadium with a great field and we know our guys will feed off that,” said Head Coach Trittschuh.  “Physically it’s going to be hard because we’re flying back for 2 days before going back to Texas for Rio Grande.  I hope the players will be able to get their legs back under them, but we just focus on San Antonio now.”

“Dealing with the travel is nothing more than being a professional,” said goalkeeper Dan Jackson.  “We’ve all traveled these distances before and the second you step on the field you know we’re there for one reason; three points.  It all comes down to focus and preparation before we travel and I know we’ll work on that all week here.”

Jackson started in the Switchbacks’ 1-1 tie with the Oklahoma City Energy FC at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs last Saturday, with the University of Denver product producing a brilliant first-half save that kept the Switchbacks level.  

“Dan stood strong on Saturday,” said Trittschuh.  “I’m still not happy with the goal we gave up, but then Dan made a great save for us!”

Winger Masta Kacher gave the Switchbacks the lead against OKC with a devilishly curling and dipping strike that seems destined to be named the USL’s Goal of the Week.  

“Personally the goal helps me, but I want to help the team more on defense and help my teammates and make sure we all get more touches of the ball,” said Kacher after a frigid Monday training session in Colorado Springs.  “We go in to Texas confident but we need to show that in our practice this week also.  We have to continue this week to work hard – that’s how we build confidence.”

With more than half the Switchbacks’ roster comprised of new additions, growing pains were inevitable early in the 2017 season.  But with 4 points from their opening two matches, the Switchbacks have a solid foundation with which to go into the Texas two-step against San Antonio FC and Rio Grande Valley FC.

“People feel more comfortable and our communication is helping with improving the good relationships that are starting to form on the field,” said Dan Jackson.  “I think the team is coming together quickly and I really like to see the new players looking after each other.  San Antonio will be tough, but with the work we’re putting in we’ll be ready.”

Saturday evening will see the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC begin their 2017 home USL campaign at Weidner Field against the Oklahoma City Energy FC.  

Both clubs enter the new season after making the playoffs in 2016 and having fallen in the knockout-stages to the Vancouver Whitecaps 2.  The Switchbacks swept the 2016 regular season meetings between Saturday’s opponents, with a 2-0 victory at Weidner Field coming almost five months after the Switchbacks began their season with a 2-1 win at Taft Stadium in Oklahoma City.

OKC Energy FC defender Coady Andrews staked his club to a 1-0 lead in their first match of the current season against the Swope Park Rangers on Saturday night at Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City, Missouri before Swope Park stormed back to seal all three points with a 3-1 win.  Spanish midfielder José Barril saw red after picking up two yellow cards in stoppage time and will be suspended for Saturday’s match at Weidner Field.

“OKC [Energy FC] are coming off a loss so they’ll be looking to get back on track, but we are going to use playing in front of our home fans and the weather and really come out ready to play,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  Winter-like conditions are predicted for Saturday’s match in the Rocky Mountains, although glorious spring sunshine bathed the Switchbacks’ Thursday morning practice at the United States Air Force Academy.

“We’ve been training all spring up here and we’re used to playing in it and living in it,” said Trittschuh.  “Nothing that happens with the weather will be anything new for our players and they all know that.”  

“Part of me wants it to snow – and snow a lot!” exclaimed central defender Josh Phillips when asked about the potential for Saturday’s weather to be less than optimal.  “We want the conditions to be brutal and we want to be that team nobody wants to play…I really hope it snows on Saturday because that will give us even more of an edge.”

Switchbacks captain, central midfielder Rony Argueta, echoed the statements of both his head coach and teammates: “Honestly I hope the weather is brutal at game time.  We’ve trained in it and we’re ready for it and we know the fans will be there no matter what.  I’m really excited to be back home and to step out on our field again.”

OKC Energy FC Head Coach Jimmy Nielsen will bring with him a veteran, experienced and physical team to Colorado Springs.  Nielsen furthered the connection between Oklahoma City and the Head Coach’s native Denmark as the Energy brought in forward Philip Rasmussen ahead of the 2017 season.  

Fellow Dane Danni König brings athleticism and height to the Energy’s forward line, while Polish striker Wojciech Wojcik stands 6’ 4” and was a key outlet early in the Energy’s loss to the Swope Park Rangers.   

“We’ve got a lot of physicality too and all our guys compete,” said Rony Argueta when asked about the threat of OKC’s size.  “We need to match their intensity and bring our own level of pressure.  If we do that we can handle the physical battle on Saturday.”

A familiar face to all those at Weidner Field this weekend will be that of former Switchbacks winger Miguel Gonzalez.  Gonzalez left Colorado Springs after two highly successful seasons with the Switchbacks to join the Oklahoma City Energy FC and his brother, midfielder Daniel Gonzalez.

Los Angeles-born midfielder Alejandro Covarrubias bosses the Energy FC play from his free-roaming central midfield position and will be key to the success of the Energy’s attack on Saturday.  Luis Martinez may well be tapped with replacing the suspended José Barril, while Coy Craft will no doubt be hoping for additional minutes after a 20-minute substitute appearance against Swope Park.

For the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, Saturday is about beginning the 2017 season on a positive note at Weidner Field – no matter the weekend weather.

“It’s always good to get back to our home field and get the big first game out of the way for us,” said Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “I hope the players can take advantage of what was a really good and intense week of practice for us.”

“The whole team is excited for Saturday,” stressed left back Josh Suggs.  “Oklahoma City have brought in a lot of talent – a number of good players – and it’s always a good rivalry and test to play against them.”

“We’re all ready for the first game here,” said Josh Phillips.  “My family is flying in for the game on Saturday so I’m personally even more excited because of that.  But we know how difficult this weekend will be.  OKC are a good, deep team and we know we’ll have to be on our game.”  

The Switchbacks’ preparation for Saturday’s home opener also included a scrimmage against a selection of players from the Colorado Rapids on Tuesday morning in Denver.  “I’ve loved the intensity of training this week,” said midfielder Jacob Cawsey.  “We competed versus the Rapids and looked organized and I hope we take that into Saturday.  The game against the Rapids was a big positive for all of us to take confidence into this weekend.”

Saturday evening will see the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC begin their 2017 home USL campaign at Weidner Field against the Oklahoma City Energy FC.  

Both clubs enter the new season after making the playoffs in 2016 and having fallen in the knockout-stages to the Vancouver Whitecaps 2.  The Switchbacks swept the 2016 regular season meetings between Saturday’s opponents, with a 2-0 victory at Weidner Field coming almost five months after the Switchbacks began their season with a 2-1 win at Taft Stadium in Oklahoma City.

OKC Energy FC defender Coady Andrews staked his club to a 1-0 lead in their first match of the current season against the Swope Park Rangers on Saturday night at Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City, Missouri before Swope Park stormed back to seal all three points with a 3-1 win.  Spanish midfielder José Barril saw red after picking up two yellow cards in stoppage time and will be suspended for Saturday’s match at Weidner Field.

“OKC [Energy FC] are coming off a loss so they’ll be looking to get back on track, but we are going to use playing in front of our home fans and the weather and really come out ready to play,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  Winter-like conditions are predicted for Saturday’s match in the Rocky Mountains, although glorious spring sunshine bathed the Switchbacks’ Thursday morning practice at the United States Air Force Academy.

“We’ve been training all spring up here and we’re used to playing in it and living in it,” said Trittschuh.  “Nothing that happens with the weather will be anything new for our players and they all know that.”  

“Part of me wants it to snow – and snow a lot!” exclaimed central defender Josh Phillips when asked about the potential for Saturday’s weather to be less than optimal.  “We want the conditions to be brutal and we want to be that team nobody wants to play…I really hope it snows on Saturday because that will give us even more of an edge.”

Switchbacks captain, central midfielder Rony Argueta, echoed the statements of both his head coach and teammates: “Honestly I hope the weather is brutal at game time.  We’ve trained in it and we’re ready for it and we know the fans will be there no matter what.  I’m really excited to be back home and to step out on our field again.”

OKC Energy FC Head Coach Jimmy Nielsen will bring with him a veteran, experienced and physical team to Colorado Springs.  Nielsen furthered the connection between Oklahoma City and the Head Coach’s native Denmark as the Energy brought in forward Philip Rasmussen ahead of the 2017 season.  

Fellow Dane Danni König brings athleticism and height to the Energy’s forward line, while Polish striker Wojciech Wojcik stands 6’ 4” and was a key outlet early in the Energy’s loss to the Swope Park Rangers.   

“We’ve got a lot of physicality too and all our guys compete,” said Rony Argueta when asked about the threat of OKC’s size.  “We need to match their intensity and bring our own level of pressure.  If we do that we can handle the physical battle on Saturday.”

A familiar face to all those at Weidner Field this weekend will be that of former Switchbacks winger Miguel Gonzalez.  Gonzalez left Colorado Springs after two highly successful seasons with the Switchbacks to join the Oklahoma City Energy FC and his brother, midfielder Daniel Gonzalez.

Los Angeles-born midfielder Alejandro Covarrubias bosses the Energy FC play from his free-roaming central midfield position and will be key to the success of the Energy’s attack on Saturday.  Luis Martinez may well be tapped with replacing the suspended José Barril, while Coy Craft will no doubt be hoping for additional minutes after a 20-minute substitute appearance against Swope Park.

For the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, Saturday is about beginning the 2017 season on a positive note at Weidner Field – no matter the weekend weather.

“It’s always good to get back to our home field and get the big first game out of the way for us,” said Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “I hope the players can take advantage of what was a really good and intense week of practice for us.”

“The whole team is excited for Saturday,” stressed left back Josh Suggs.  “Oklahoma City have brought in a lot of talent – a number of good players – and it’s always a good rivalry and test to play against them.”

“We’re all ready for the first game here,” said Josh Phillips.  “My family is flying in for the game on Saturday so I’m personally even more excited because of that.  But we know how difficult this weekend will be.  OKC are a good, deep team and we know we’ll have to be on our game.”  

The Switchbacks’ preparation for Saturday’s home opener also included a scrimmage against a selection of players from the Colorado Rapids on Tuesday morning in Denver.  “I’ve loved the intensity of training this week,” said midfielder Jacob Cawsey.  “We competed versus the Rapids and looked organized and I hope we take that into Saturday.  The game against the Rapids was a big positive for all of us to take confidence into this weekend.”

Colorado Springs, CO (March 20, 2017)-The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC finished their 2017 preseason campaign with a convincing 4–0 win over Harpo’s FC on Saturday evening at Weidner Field.  

Harpo’s FC, a member of the United States Specialty Sports Association, are based in Boulder, Colorado and were no doubt keenly aware of the Switchbacks’ ability after being dismissed from the Second Round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup by the Switchbacks in both 2015 and 2016.

Wednesday afternoon’s 4-0 win over The Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colorado gave the Switchbacks’ offense a momentum boost that they carried into Saturday’s matchup with Harpo’s FC.  

The Switchbacks were on the scoreboard inside of 2 minutes on Saturday when Kevaughn Frater fired his header home after a pinpoint cross from Chris James.  Dan Jackson made a solid save down to his right on 16 minutes before the Switchbacks began to boss proceedings.

Switchbacks forwards Shane Malcolm and Kevaughn Frater were a constant threat to Harpo’s in the first half, while Josh Phillips showcased some outrageous skill on the half hour mark to wriggle free in the Harpo’s box only to see his near-post shot well blocked.  

The second Switchbacks goal came exactly on the stroke of halftime as Shane Malcolm headed home Chris James’ wonderfully weighted free kick.  James tallied his third assist of the evening in the 65th minute after playing in Masta Kacher who blasted his shot into the roof of the net as the Switchbacks opened the lead to 3-0.  

Second half substitute Jun Gyeong Park showcased some brilliant skill on 83 minutes to skip past two Harpo’s defenders and delight the Weidner Stadium crowd who were enjoying record-setting high temperatures in Colorado Springs.

Kim rounded off the Switchbacks’ scoring just minutes before full-time after some brilliant improvisation from fellow substitute Aaron King.  King, playing in his customary forward role, deftly faked bringing a Switchbacks free kick down on his chest and allowed the ball to run perfectly through to Kim.  After taking the ball into his strike Kim finished powerfully past a helpless Harpo’s goalkeeper.

“It’s been a solid preseason where we’ve all worked on trying our best to gel with all the new players and all the new things we’re learning,” said Chris James after his three-assist performance.  “It was a good result tonight but there are still elements we need to improve before next weekend.  A real positive tonight is that our defense was solid and the defense needs to be our strong suit.”

“We have a lot of new players so we just need that time to fit in together,” echoed Rony Argueta.  “After looking at the way we played during the preseason you can see there’s a different style about this team.  This last week is about working hard and adjusting to the style of the new players.  We looked good tonight and we need to keep going forward and scoring goals.”

Argueta, who anchored the midfield against Harpo’s, wore the captain’s armband for the match and Head Coach Steve Trittschuh confirmed after the game that Argueta will be the Switchbacks’ captain in 2017.  “It’s a huge honor for me,” said Argueta.  “It pushes me even harder and I know I’ve got to step up.  But it’s about our first game now.  The team is feeling good and we are definitely going to have to be a lot better against Tulsa because we know that’s a different kind of competition for us.”

“As the comfort level with the new players rises our game will improve,” said Steve Trittschuh after the match.  “I’m happy with the way we played and I’m also very happy with the way Harpo’s came in here and showed up and really gave us a game – that’s exactly what we needed.  I wish we could have played against more USL-caliber opposition this preseason, but tonight was a good game for the players.  The reason I wanted to play Harpo’s was to play at a higher level and I knew Harpo’s would give us a game and they did.”

The Switchbacks now have a final week of preparation and practice before beginning their 2017 regular season campaign in Tulsa, Oklahoma against the Roughnecks FC at ONEOK Field.  

“We’re finding our best partnerships and we’re getting in good goal-scoring positions and it’s good to keep experiencing that winning feeling,” added Steve Trittschuh after the match.  “Every time we played Harpo’s it was a tight game so to win 4-0 gives us confidence before Tulsa.  Our fitness will come and now we have a week to think about who will go to Tulsa and compete.  We’re getting to know each other more but this last week is important to continue the things that have been put in place.”

“We’ve all worked very hard this preseason and the players are ready to go,” said Chris James.  “We’re not there yet, but we are reaching where we need to be in terms of sharpness.  There’s going to be some tough games ahead but the lads are ready for the season and we’re well prepared for next week.  There’s just this last week now to work on some details and try to carry tonight forward into the season.”

Colorado Springs, CO (March 20, 2017)-The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC finished their 2017 preseason campaign with a convincing 4–0 win over Harpo’s FC on Saturday evening at Weidner Field.  

Harpo’s FC, a member of the United States Specialty Sports Association, are based in Boulder, Colorado and were no doubt keenly aware of the Switchbacks’ ability after being dismissed from the Second Round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup by the Switchbacks in both 2015 and 2016.

Wednesday afternoon’s 4-0 win over The Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colorado gave the Switchbacks’ offense a momentum boost that they carried into Saturday’s matchup with Harpo’s FC.  

The Switchbacks were on the scoreboard inside of 2 minutes on Saturday when Kevaughn Frater fired his header home after a pinpoint cross from Chris James.  Dan Jackson made a solid save down to his right on 16 minutes before the Switchbacks began to boss proceedings.

Switchbacks forwards Shane Malcolm and Kevaughn Frater were a constant threat to Harpo’s in the first half, while Josh Phillips showcased some outrageous skill on the half hour mark to wriggle free in the Harpo’s box only to see his near-post shot well blocked.  

The second Switchbacks goal came exactly on the stroke of halftime as Shane Malcolm headed home Chris James’ wonderfully weighted free kick.  James tallied his third assist of the evening in the 65th minute after playing in Masta Kacher who blasted his shot into the roof of the net as the Switchbacks opened the lead to 3-0.  

Second half substitute Jun Gyeong Park showcased some brilliant skill on 83 minutes to skip past two Harpo’s defenders and delight the Weidner Stadium crowd who were enjoying record-setting high temperatures in Colorado Springs.

Kim rounded off the Switchbacks’ scoring just minutes before full-time after some brilliant improvisation from fellow substitute Aaron King.  King, playing in his customary forward role, deftly faked bringing a Switchbacks free kick down on his chest and allowed the ball to run perfectly through to Kim.  After taking the ball into his strike Kim finished powerfully past a helpless Harpo’s goalkeeper.

“It’s been a solid preseason where we’ve all worked on trying our best to gel with all the new players and all the new things we’re learning,” said Chris James after his three-assist performance.  “It was a good result tonight but there are still elements we need to improve before next weekend.  A real positive tonight is that our defense was solid and the defense needs to be our strong suit.”

“We have a lot of new players so we just need that time to fit in together,” echoed Rony Argueta.  “After looking at the way we played during the preseason you can see there’s a different style about this team.  This last week is about working hard and adjusting to the style of the new players.  We looked good tonight and we need to keep going forward and scoring goals.”

Argueta, who anchored the midfield against Harpo’s, wore the captain’s armband for the match and Head Coach Steve Trittschuh confirmed after the game that Argueta will be the Switchbacks’ captain in 2017.  “It’s a huge honor for me,” said Argueta.  “It pushes me even harder and I know I’ve got to step up.  But it’s about our first game now.  The team is feeling good and we are definitely going to have to be a lot better against Tulsa because we know that’s a different kind of competition for us.”

“As the comfort level with the new players rises our game will improve,” said Steve Trittschuh after the match.  “I’m happy with the way we played and I’m also very happy with the way Harpo’s came in here and showed up and really gave us a game – that’s exactly what we needed.  I wish we could have played against more USL-caliber opposition this preseason, but tonight was a good game for the players.  The reason I wanted to play Harpo’s was to play at a higher level and I knew Harpo’s would give us a game and they did.”

The Switchbacks now have a final week of preparation and practice before beginning their 2017 regular season campaign in Tulsa, Oklahoma against the Roughnecks FC at ONEOK Field.  

“We’re finding our best partnerships and we’re getting in good goal-scoring positions and it’s good to keep experiencing that winning feeling,” added Steve Trittschuh after the match.  “Every time we played Harpo’s it was a tight game so to win 4-0 gives us confidence before Tulsa.  Our fitness will come and now we have a week to think about who will go to Tulsa and compete.  We’re getting to know each other more but this last week is important to continue the things that have been put in place.”

“We’ve all worked very hard this preseason and the players are ready to go,” said Chris James.  “We’re not there yet, but we are reaching where we need to be in terms of sharpness.  There’s going to be some tough games ahead but the lads are ready for the season and we’re well prepared for next week.  There’s just this last week now to work on some details and try to carry tonight forward into the season.”

Three different Switchbacks scored on Saturday afternoon as the Colorado Springs Switchbacks ran away 3-1 victors over the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Mountain Lions at Weidner Field.  

Undefeated in the 2017 preseason, the Switchbacks were led to victory over the spirited Mountain Lions by an efficient offensive unit that scored two first half goals.  

Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh started Saturday’s match with Dan Jackson in goal, and a back four of Josh Suggs, Josh Phillips, Pascal Eboussi and Jordan Burt.  Right back Burt pressed the Switchbacks’ attack forward at every opportunity and had two dangerous crosses blocked within the opening 10 minutes.  

The Switchbacks’ forward three caused the UCCS backline numerous problems as Shane Malcolm, Kevaughn Frater and Masta Kacher all interchanged with ease.  Malcolm’s speed was particularly apparent as he brilliantly linked play with Kacher just before the half hour, with Frater leading the attacking diamond.  

New Zealander Chris James put the Switchbacks on the score sheet after a great piece of individual skill from Shane Malcolm.  Malcolm, after beating the UCCS defense with a combination of pace and pure skill, crossed low and hard to the near post where James made a brave sliding finish.

UCCS leveled just three minutes later as a corner kick was deftly finished to the far post.  

The stroke of halftime also signaled the Switchbacks’ second goal.  Kevaughn Frater, just moments after seeing his stinging shot fly inches wide, made a great 40 yard run only to be unceremoniously brought down inside the box for a penalty kick.  Chris James thundered home the PK to the UCCS goalkeeper’s left in what was essentially the final kick of an entertaining first half.

“Some guys on this team have to step up and that showed early,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh after the match.  “Last season we had a played-in squad when we started the preseason.  This year it’s going to take some time because we have so many new players.  Everyone brings their own game and we need time and games together so the players can learn about each other.”

Trittschuh rang the changes to start the second half, with Switchbacks veterans Aaron King and Luke Vercollone among those to enter the game.

Switchbacks fans were relieved to see Vercollone return to action after shaking off the effects of a very strong tackle just five minutes into the second ‘45.  Vercollone was quick to return to return to his offensive best after the ill-timed challenge as he led the right side of the Switchbacks’ attacking trio.  

Jamaican wingback Sean McFarlane, who had replaced Josh Suggs at halftime, pushed forward throughout the second half, while fellow substitute Aaron King was unlucky to see an effort go just over the bar.

Soon-to-be fan favorite Jack Jones was the Switchback that would eventually put the match out of the reach of a valiant UCCS Mountain Lions squad.  Connor Bevans found Jones who beautifully angled his right-footed shot into the bottom of the far corner on 84 minutes.  The goal was just reward for the Switchbacks’ second half attacking intent, and despite two further half-chances as the match ticked towards its conclusion, the game ended 3-1.

“Every game we get to know each other a little bit better,” said right back Jordan Burt.  “Our legs are finally getting there in terms of regular season fitness.  Hopefully we start to click a little more soon and we continue to get ready and get better with each game.  I know by the time the Tulsa game comes around we’ll be ready.”

“There’s a little bit of that Colorado Springs soccer rivalry there,” joked starting goalkeeper Dan Jackson after the match.  “We’ve played them before and it’s always fun to get these preseason games out of the way because we’re learning a lot.  At times we looked really good and at times we were able to implement some things we’ve been working on in training which is one of the goals of these games.  If we can cut out these silly errors and find our grit and will to win then we’ll be fine moving forward into the regular season.”

“We are really excited about this team but it’s going to take time,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “Without playing USL-caliber teams in preseason it’s hard to gauge exactly where we are right now – we’ll have to see in Tulsa [Saturday, March 25].  These are all really good players, some of them who have international experience.  I think they are better players than we had before – it’s just about getting everyone on the same page now as we move forward.”

The Switchbacks’ next match will take place in Golden, Colorado against the Colorado School of Mines Orediggers on Wednesday afternoon at 4pm.  

The 2017 preseason will finish on March 18th at Weidner Field against Harpo’s F.C. in a match the Switchbacks’ coaching staff is already anticipating.  “The game in Mines will be about getting guys who didn’t play much today some time,” said Head Coach Trittschuh.  “For Harpo’s we’ll settle on a strong team that will go to Tulsa and compete for starting positions.  It’s now time for guys to step up if they want to be part of the squad that travels to Tulsa and we’ll get a good idea about that against Harpo’s.”

Three different Switchbacks scored on Saturday afternoon as the Colorado Springs Switchbacks ran away 3-1 victors over the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Mountain Lions at Weidner Field.  

Undefeated in the 2017 preseason, the Switchbacks were led to victory over the spirited Mountain Lions by an efficient offensive unit that scored two first half goals.  

Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh started Saturday’s match with Dan Jackson in goal, and a back four of Josh Suggs, Josh Phillips, Pascal Eboussi and Jordan Burt.  Right back Burt pressed the Switchbacks’ attack forward at every opportunity and had two dangerous crosses blocked within the opening 10 minutes.  

The Switchbacks’ forward three caused the UCCS backline numerous problems as Shane Malcolm, Kevaughn Frater and Masta Kacher all interchanged with ease.  Malcolm’s speed was particularly apparent as he brilliantly linked play with Kacher just before the half hour, with Frater leading the attacking diamond.  

New Zealander Chris James put the Switchbacks on the score sheet after a great piece of individual skill from Shane Malcolm.  Malcolm, after beating the UCCS defense with a combination of pace and pure skill, crossed low and hard to the near post where James made a brave sliding finish.

UCCS leveled just three minutes later as a corner kick was deftly finished to the far post.  

The stroke of halftime also signaled the Switchbacks’ second goal.  Kevaughn Frater, just moments after seeing his stinging shot fly inches wide, made a great 40 yard run only to be unceremoniously brought down inside the box for a penalty kick.  Chris James thundered home the PK to the UCCS goalkeeper’s left in what was essentially the final kick of an entertaining first half.

“Some guys on this team have to step up and that showed early,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh after the match.  “Last season we had a played-in squad when we started the preseason.  This year it’s going to take some time because we have so many new players.  Everyone brings their own game and we need time and games together so the players can learn about each other.”

Trittschuh rang the changes to start the second half, with Switchbacks veterans Aaron King and Luke Vercollone among those to enter the game.

Switchbacks fans were relieved to see Vercollone return to action after shaking off the effects of a very strong tackle just five minutes into the second ‘45.  Vercollone was quick to return to return to his offensive best after the ill-timed challenge as he led the right side of the Switchbacks’ attacking trio.  

Jamaican wingback Sean McFarlane, who had replaced Josh Suggs at halftime, pushed forward throughout the second half, while fellow substitute Aaron King was unlucky to see an effort go just over the bar.

Soon-to-be fan favorite Jack Jones was the Switchback that would eventually put the match out of the reach of a valiant UCCS Mountain Lions squad.  Connor Bevans found Jones who beautifully angled his right-footed shot into the bottom of the far corner on 84 minutes.  The goal was just reward for the Switchbacks’ second half attacking intent, and despite two further half-chances as the match ticked towards its conclusion, the game ended 3-1.

“Every game we get to know each other a little bit better,” said right back Jordan Burt.  “Our legs are finally getting there in terms of regular season fitness.  Hopefully we start to click a little more soon and we continue to get ready and get better with each game.  I know by the time the Tulsa game comes around we’ll be ready.”

“There’s a little bit of that Colorado Springs soccer rivalry there,” joked starting goalkeeper Dan Jackson after the match.  “We’ve played them before and it’s always fun to get these preseason games out of the way because we’re learning a lot.  At times we looked really good and at times we were able to implement some things we’ve been working on in training which is one of the goals of these games.  If we can cut out these silly errors and find our grit and will to win then we’ll be fine moving forward into the regular season.”

“We are really excited about this team but it’s going to take time,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “Without playing USL-caliber teams in preseason it’s hard to gauge exactly where we are right now – we’ll have to see in Tulsa [Saturday, March 25].  These are all really good players, some of them who have international experience.  I think they are better players than we had before – it’s just about getting everyone on the same page now as we move forward.”

The Switchbacks’ next match will take place in Golden, Colorado against the Colorado School of Mines Orediggers on Wednesday afternoon at 4pm.  

The 2017 preseason will finish on March 18th at Weidner Field against Harpo’s F.C. in a match the Switchbacks’ coaching staff is already anticipating.  “The game in Mines will be about getting guys who didn’t play much today some time,” said Head Coach Trittschuh.  “For Harpo’s we’ll settle on a strong team that will go to Tulsa and compete for starting positions.  It’s now time for guys to step up if they want to be part of the squad that travels to Tulsa and we’ll get a good idea about that against Harpo’s.”