Colorado’s optimism coming off just its third win of the season is tempered by the reality that as many as four defensive stalwarts will be unavailable on Saturday when the Rapids host Columbus Crew SC.
Goalkeeper Tim Howard and defender Bobby Burling are out for sure while injuries could prevent center backs Axel Sjoberg and Jared Watts from playing for the Rapids (3-8-1).
Burling received a one-game suspension for violent conduct in the 18th minute of the 1-0 win against Sporting Kansas City last Saturday.
Howard was called to the U.S. men’s national team and will be replaced by Zac MacMath, who is 1-3-0 with one shutout and a 1.