Coming into the week of April 26, the Rapids knew two games stood in their way of a perfect regular season. The Rapids traveled to Elizabeth on Monday night to start the week with a battle vs.the undefeated Bruriah Lightning. This game was no easy test and one the Rapids would not take lightly. Giving the Rapids their toughest test yet, the Lightning kept the game close going into the half and played disciplined soccer to try and frustrate the Rapids. The Rapids, taking a team first approach, were up to the challenge and kept their cool even as the game was close; they applied a balanced attack, stellar defense and excellent goal-tending and the Rapids emerged victorious 8-4. The Rapids had little turnaround time as on Wednesday they traveled to Kushner to play the Cobras, a team they faced a few short weeks ago shorthanded. This game was quite different and similar to their game earlier in the week. The Cobras gave the Rapids a run for their money and in fact took the lead 3-2 in the 3rd—this was the first time since the first game the Rapids had trailed all year. However, the Rapids coming off their big Monday night win rallied and took a lead they would never again lose. Once again, the team showed its versatility by mixing up the defenders with the offenders, throwing off the first half game plan of the Cobras. The Rapids iced the game with a few quick goals and went on to secure the win 7-3 and their perfect regular season of 8-0. Headed into the playoffs the Rapids know they sit at 0-0, but coming off five of eight mercies, eight overall wins and multiple players tallying double digit goals this year, the Rapids seem poised to make a run. But after securing the division last year, and losing in the semi’s, the Rapids are not taking any opponent or game lightly. The Rapids wait to see who they will play in round one of the playoffs but rest assured they will be ready.
By Rapids Sports Staff
