COMMERCE CITY, Colo. (KOAA) — The Colorado Springs Switchbacks' U.S. Open Cup run came to an end Wednesday after a heartbreaking loss to the Colorado Rapids 2(5) - 2(4) in a penalty shootout at Dick's Sporting Goods Park.
The Rapids struck first in the 25th minute after forward Rafael Navarro found midfielder Alexis Manyoma in the 18-yard box to give Colorado a 1-0 lead.
The Switchbacks answered with a game-tying goal in the 34th minute off a corner kick from forward Adrien Perez, who sent the ball into the six-yard box where defender Garven Metusala found midfielder Brennan Creek, who put the ball in the back of the net.
Rapids defender Kosi Thompson was issued a red card in the second half, leaving Colorado a man down.
In extra time, the Rapids took a 2-1 lead in the 119th minute when forward Georgi Minoungou scored a goal on a breakaway.
One minute later, a handball by Rapids midfielder Josh Atencio in the box gave the Switchbacks a penalty kick. Forward Khori Bennett converted the kick, sending the game to a penalty shootout.
The Rapids went on to win the shootout 5-4.
The Switchbacks are back in action on Saturday as they take on San Antonio FC. Kickoff is at 6:30 p.m. at Toyota Field in San Antonio. Click here for information on how you can watch the game.
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Deadline to apply for LEAP in Colorado is April 30
Details on Colorado's Low-Income Energy Assistance Program.
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