Denver Road Trip: Reserves Match

The mood at breakfast on Sunday was lethargic. We all seemed to arrive at the complementary meal at about the same time. It was nice to get a hot meal to start the day.

Checking out of the hotel, we travelled out to the Rapids training facility for the reserves match. We arrived 10 minutes into the match with RSL already down 1-0. Former Blitzz 'keeper Chad Sackett was in goal, which was a plus for us old time supporters. In recognition to the fact, I wore my Utah Blitzz Radical Attitude Fan t-shirt.

It was my first reserves match. The scene was a reminder of how wonderfully simple the game really is. Take away the stadium and the PA announcer, the TV cameras and even the scoreboard and you have the same game played by the masses.

A funny moment came just before half time. A group of us were sitting by the sideline while Eric, the group photo man, was up taking pictures. In a situation where Jamie Watson had the ball inside the six and was dispossessed we heard from Eric's direction (something to the affect of), "c'mon first time Jamie!" We all turned in surprise that Eric would say that, and saw that it wasn't Eric at all. Brian Dunseth was standing by the photographer.

Dunnie ended up standing and talking with us for the remainder of the match. He's a funny person to talk to with a lot of entertaining stories and experiences to share. Another example that our players are class acts. In case it wasn't clear from my post on the team. I never doubted the players were class acts. The timing just wasn't right the night before.

Following the 5-1 loss of the reserves the bench came over and genuinely thanked the supporters. The occasion was much more organic and natural and everyone looked to be more relaxed and comfortable, players and supporters alike.

It was a perfect way for us to end our stay in Denver as we loaded on the bus and headed home.

The first RSL Supporters Road Trip is in the books, and I know I'm not the only one who hopes there will be many more in the future.

onward rsl!