Preseason: Chivas USA draw Colorado Rapids 0-0 in Desert Diamond Cup play

Chivas USA concluded group play in the preseason Desert Diamond Cup tournament in Tucson Wednesday, drawing the Colorado Rapids 0-0. Featuring a mostly-second string lineup that played the entire match, the Goats stayed unbeaten against both the Rapids and all opponents this preseason.

Dan Kennedy was likely the only opening day starter who started in this match, as he played the first half. His trademark aggression helped keep the teams level in the first half, particularly on a low save to stop a Gabriel Torres free kick in the 28th minute.

Although Chivas had some chances, the big takeaway from this match is the defensive performance. Though the Rapids controlled the play for the most part in the game, their inability to really punish the Goats, coupled with the solid performance on the backline, should bolster hopes heading into the season on the defensive front.

Here was the starting XI for Chivas for the game:

Dan Kennedy; Andrew Ribeiro, Michael Nwiloh, Fejiro Okiomah, Donny Toia; Marky Delgado, Bryan de la Fuente, Carlos Borja, Leandro Barrera; Caleb Calvert, Kris Tyrpak

Trialist Trevor Spangenberg replaced Kennedy at halftime, while Adolfo Bautista returned to the lineup for the Goats at the hour mark. Dani Fragoso, also on trial at the moment, entered the game in the 71st minute.

Here are some video highlights of the match:

If I'm doing my math right, it looks like Chivas finished second in group play with five points, but because of the previously announced arrival of Chivas Rayadas to play the title match (vs. the Chicago Fire), it would appear Chivas USA won't get a chance to play in the DDC title game. We'll have to wait for final confirmation on CUSA's opponent Saturday, however.

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