MLS WESTERN CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP -- GAME #2
Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado
In their Best of 3 game series, the Colorado Rapids twice beat the Dallas Burn to win the 1997 Western Conference Championship.
In the first half, Dallar Burn's Damian scored in the 5th minute on an assist from Ted Eck. In the 23rd minute, Rapids' Patino scored the equalizer on an assist from Steve Trittshuh...in a scramble that bounced the ball to Patino, who finished with great precision.
Dallas Burn midfielder, Alain Sutter, played as long as he could, but succumbed to his "stomack flu" which kept him out of their first game in Dallas.
In the 2nd half, Rapids Goalkeeper, Marcus Hanneman, was spectacular. He made many great saves that kept the Rapids in the game. The game winning goal scored shortly before the end of the game, was scored by Chris Henderson, assisted by Adrian Paz and Wolde Harris. Chris Henerson's scissor kick goal was one of the season's best in the MLS.
The stunned Dallas Burn increased their urgency. Burn coach, Dave Dir pushed everyone up, including his goal-keeper, Mark Dodd, hoping to score the equalizer. Again, Rapids Goalkeeper, Marcus Hanneman, and the rest of the Rapids defense, stopped all attempts made by the Burn.
Our Player of the Game Honors go to Marcus Hanneman, and Chris Henderson.
The Colorado Rapids win the Western Conference Championship, and advance to the MLS Championship. It will be exciting to see how the Rapids match up against Etcheverry and his magic. Also, how Colorado Rapids Coach Myernick matches up against his former boss, DC United Coach, Bruce Arena.
The MLS Championship Game is SOLD OUT. You may watch it Sunday, October 26, 1997, on ABC at 3:30pm EST (1:30pm Denver time).