FC Dallas is 45 minutes away from their first Major League Soccer championship. Then again, so is Colorado, potentially. We might be in for extra time, too. Though Dallas took a one goal lead into halftime, the first half was relatively even, with only a 36th minute David Ferreira goal separating the sides.
MLS Cup Final, FC Dallas Vs. Colorado: Quick Strike From Dallas Has Rapids Trailing At Halftime
The one goal means that Colorado may eventually have to chase this match, something that does not bode well for their ability to defend Dallas's counter attack. It was a quick transition - one ball from left back to right wing - that led to the Ferreira goal, putting a Martin Chavez cross in from six yards out. Should Colorado have to start playing more aggressively, the positioning of left back Anthony Wallace will be further tested. Acquired in mid-season from Dallas, the Rapids defender was found out-of-position on a previous counter attack, with poor handling from Chavez slowing down Dallas's chance.
But aside from a few moments in transition, Dallas has been second best to Colorado, who saw chances from Pablo Mastroeni, Conor Casey and Omar Cummings in the first 45. Only one of those chances, an early shot from Mastroeni, has tested Kevin Hartman, though the midfielders left-footed dribbler didn't failed to threaten Dallas's goal. Still, Colorado found enough of the ball in the first half to be positive about the second, especially if Jamie Smith can continue getting crosses in from the left flank.
That flank which would normally be defended by the injured Heath Pearce, has been weakened further by the loss of Jackson, the utility man who was subbed out mid-way through the half with an apparent hip injury, Nominal central defender Zach Loyd has been brought on his Jackson's place.
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