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The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC’s wild week at Weidner Field wraps up on Saturday evening as they host Fresno FC in USL Championship action.  Pikes Peak Brewing Company will be giving away Switchbacks caps to the first 1,000 fans through the gates at Weidner Field.

Fresno FC enter Colorado Springs flying high in 4th place in the Western Conference: tied on points but just behind Phoenix Rising FC on goal difference.  Fresno lost in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday night to Sacramento Republic FC at Papa Murphy’s Park in California’s capitol city after Stefano Bonomo scored in the 123rd minute to end Fresno’s Cup run.  Fresno FC made their way into the third round after defeating El Farolito Soccer Club 1-0 at Matthew J. Boxer Stadium in San Francisco’s Balboa Park on May 15th behind a 75th minute winner from Qudus Lawal.  

On Wednesday night the Switchbacks fell 2-1 after extra time in heart-wrenching fashion to New Mexico United in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.  The mood after Wednesday’s match among the Switchbacks’ players and staff vacillated between disappointment, anger, and frustration as the Switchbacks were desperately unfortunate to be sent down to 10-men in the 93rd minute.  Legs will no doubt be heavy for Saturday’s showdown at Weidner Field, with both teams going above and beyond 90 minutes in their respective U.S. Open Cup games that stretched late into Wednesday evening.

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC’s wild week at Weidner Field wraps up on Saturday evening as they host Fresno FC in USL Championship action.  Pikes Peak Brewing Company will be giving away Switchbacks caps to the first 1,000 fans through the gates at Weidner Field.

Fresno FC enter Colorado Springs flying high in 4th place in the Western Conference: tied on points but just behind Phoenix Rising FC on goal difference.  Fresno lost in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday night to Sacramento Republic FC at Papa Murphy’s Park in California’s capitol city after Stefano Bonomo scored in the 123rd minute to end Fresno’s Cup run.  Fresno FC made their way into the third round after defeating El Farolito Soccer Club 1-0 at Matthew J. Boxer Stadium in San Francisco’s Balboa Park on May 15th behind a 75th minute winner from Qudus Lawal.  

On Wednesday night the Switchbacks fell 2-1 after extra time in heart-wrenching fashion to New Mexico United in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.  The mood after Wednesday’s match among the Switchbacks’ players and staff vacillated between disappointment, anger, and frustration as the Switchbacks were desperately unfortunate to be sent down to 10-men in the 93rd minute.  Legs will no doubt be heavy for Saturday’s showdown at Weidner Field, with both teams going above and beyond 90 minutes in their respective U.S. Open Cup games that stretched late into Wednesday evening.

“We just need to rebound off this game,” said Mike Seth immediately following Wednesday’s extra-time loss.  “Tonight hurts; especially with the way things have been going in the league. We need to put this behind us and try to move on for Fresno.”

“To put in another effort like that [on Saturday] will be hard,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh on Wednesday night as Fresno FC and Sacramento Republic played their Open Cup game in California.  Trittschuh was then asked about the refereeing on Wednesday evening. “It just baffles me. I don’t understand it – for this level of game things like that should not happen. The guys know what happened. And we’ve got to turn around and play Saturday with the same group.  Our guys played a good game tonight; I can’t fault the players at all. These [other] teams are able to rest some guys – I’m not able to. Fresno are a very direct team and they work very hard. The guys are being overworked and we’ll be short on reserves for Saturday. Fresno will be tired too and Saturday is going to be about which team comes out and wants it more.”

Brazilian midfielder Jackson is key to Fresno’s success, and leads Head Coach Adam Smith’s team in assists with five in USL Championship play.  Jackson began his career with Southern Hemisphere powerhouse São Paulo FC before journeying north of the equator for stints in Major League Soccer with FC Dallas and Toronto FC.  In net, former Georgia State University Panther C.J. Cochran has started all 11 USL Championship league games for Fresno this season and has kept four clean sheets along the way.

Veteran Argentine Juan Pablo Caffa remains a key component of Fresno’s attack, while Nigerian striker Qudus Lawal tops Fresno’s goal-scoring charts with four goals despite having played just 310 minutes in the 2019 USL Championship.  Lawal was named on the USL Championship Team of the Week after opening the scoring in Fresno’s 3-3 draw at Cheney Stadium against the Tacoma Defiance last Sunday. Former Wilmington Hammerhead Lawal has scored his four goals in Fresno’s last three matches in the USL Championship, as the team from California’s San Joaquin Valley are unbeaten during Lawal’s goal-streak.  

“We just need to rebound off this game,” said Mike Seth immediately following Wednesday’s extra-time loss.  “Tonight hurts; especially with the way things have been going in the league. We need to put this behind us and try to move on for Fresno.”

“To put in another effort like that [on Saturday] will be hard,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh on Wednesday night as Fresno FC and Sacramento Republic played their Open Cup game in California.  Trittschuh was then asked about the refereeing on Wednesday evening. “It just baffles me. I don’t understand it – for this level of game things like that should not happen. The guys know what happened. And we’ve got to turn around and play Saturday with the same group.  Our guys played a good game tonight; I can’t fault the players at all. These [other] teams are able to rest some guys – I’m not able to. Fresno are a very direct team and they work very hard. The guys are being overworked and we’ll be short on reserves for Saturday. Fresno will be tired too and Saturday is going to be about which team comes out and wants it more.”

Brazilian midfielder Jackson is key to Fresno’s success, and leads Head Coach Adam Smith’s team in assists with five in USL Championship play.  Jackson began his career with Southern Hemisphere powerhouse São Paulo FC before journeying north of the equator for stints in Major League Soccer with FC Dallas and Toronto FC.  In net, former Georgia State University Panther C.J. Cochran has started all 11 USL Championship league games for Fresno this season and has kept four clean sheets along the way.

Veteran Argentine Juan Pablo Caffa remains a key component of Fresno’s attack, while Nigerian striker Qudus Lawal tops Fresno’s goal-scoring charts with four goals despite having played just 310 minutes in the 2019 USL Championship.  Lawal was named on the USL Championship Team of the Week after opening the scoring in Fresno’s 3-3 draw at Cheney Stadium against the Tacoma Defiance last Sunday. Former Wilmington Hammerhead Lawal has scored his four goals in Fresno’s last three matches in the USL Championship, as the team from California’s San Joaquin Valley are unbeaten during Lawal’s goal-streak.  

“Fresno are coming in with a lot of firepower,” said Shane Malcolm.  “[Jemal] Johnson, [Juan Pablo] Caffa…these are talented guys and Fresno have a lot experienced players.  We have to clean up what happened tonight. We showed immaturity. We’ve got to find ways to close games when we have a late lead.  It’s not good enough and we know Fresno will be a new challenge. We’re scoring goals now – even if it’s only one – and we have to use that.”

“Fresno are a team that relies on their work ethic,” said Trittschuh.  “This weekend we’ll have to match it and that’s going to be hard for us; we’re going to be tired.  We fought and worked hard for each other tonight and we’ll need that again on Saturday.”

The Switchbacks will host Star Wars Cancer Awareness Night at Weidner Field next weekend as the Tacoma Defiance visit Colorado Springs, with Penrose-St. Francis Health Services sponsoring an R2-D2 jersey auction.  On August 24th, the Switchbacks will travel to California to face Saturday’s opponent, Fresno FC, at Chukchansi Park.

“Fresno are coming in with a lot of firepower,” said Shane Malcolm.  “[Jemal] Johnson, [Juan Pablo] Caffa…these are talented guys and Fresno have a lot experienced players.  We have to clean up what happened tonight. We showed immaturity. We’ve got to find ways to close games when we have a late lead.  It’s not good enough and we know Fresno will be a new challenge. We’re scoring goals now – even if it’s only one – and we have to use that.”

“Fresno are a team that relies on their work ethic,” said Trittschuh.  “This weekend we’ll have to match it and that’s going to be hard for us; we’re going to be tired.  We fought and worked hard for each other tonight and we’ll need that again on Saturday.”

The Switchbacks will host Star Wars Cancer Awareness Night at Weidner Field next weekend as the Tacoma Defiance visit Colorado Springs, with Penrose-St. Francis Health Services sponsoring an R2-D2 jersey auction.  On August 24th, the Switchbacks will travel to California to face Saturday’s opponent, Fresno FC, at Chukchansi Park.

Wednesday night kicks off a four-day extravaganza at Weidner Field as the Switchbacks welcome New Mexico United to Colorado Springs in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.  Fans can purchase tickets HERE for just $5 with free parking at Weidner Field.

The Switchbacks moved into the third round of the 106th U.S. Open Cup by defeating FC Denver 1-0 at Weidner Field on Wednesday, May 15th.  New Mexico United eventually overcame fellow USL Championship team Phoenix Rising FC on penalty kicks after a wild, back-and-forth match at Casino Arizona Field in the Valley of the Sun on the same evening.  Burly striker Devon Sandoval scored twice for New Mexico United against Phoenix Rising. The Albuquerque native was a constant thorn in the side of the Switchbacks’ defense in New Mexico’s 3-1 win at Weidner Field in USL Championship action on May 18th.  

Wednesday night kicks off a four-day extravaganza at Weidner Field as the Switchbacks welcome New Mexico United to Colorado Springs in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.  Fans can purchase tickets HERE for just $5 with free parking at Weidner Field.

The Switchbacks moved into the third round of the 106th U.S. Open Cup by defeating FC Denver 1-0 at Weidner Field on Wednesday, May 15th.  New Mexico United eventually overcame fellow USL Championship team Phoenix Rising FC on penalty kicks after a wild, back-and-forth match at Casino Arizona Field in the Valley of the Sun on the same evening.  Burly striker Devon Sandoval scored twice for New Mexico United against Phoenix Rising. The Albuquerque native was a constant thorn in the side of the Switchbacks’ defense in New Mexico’s 3-1 win at Weidner Field in USL Championship action on May 18th.  

“We expect New Mexico to be the same good team that we saw here before,” said Jordan Schweitzer on Monday morning in Colorado Springs.  “We began our preparation as soon as the game finished in OKC and we’re looking forward to another game in front of our fans. Getting a result is the most important thing for us and our fans here.  It’s Cup football so that adds a lot for everyone and we’ll look to progress.”

April’s USL Championship Player of the Month Kevaughn Frater notched a hat-trick in the aforementioned game in Colorado Springs, which earned the former Switchbacks striker the Week 11 USL Championship Player of the Week award.  Last season’s Switchbacks captain, Josh Suggs, started for New Mexico United in Colorado Springs, but was removed just after the hour mark. Former Switchbacks midfielder Sam Hamilton did not make the squad for the match against the Switchbacks, but will no doubt be looking for his number to be called for the midweek Open Cup showdown.

Starting goalkeeper Cody Mizell was huge for New Mexico United in their shootout win over Phoenix Rising, with the former Clemson Tiger saving the deciding penalty kick from Phoenix Rising’s A.J. Cochran.  New Mexico’s second-leading-goalscorer Santi Moar will be available to feature on Wednesday, after the dangerous Spanish striker – who already has 9 goals to his name in the 2019 USL Championship – was suspended for the match in Colorado Springs.

“New Mexico are playing well and with a lot of confidence,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “They’re a quality team and they’ve put together a team with the ability to compete for a championship in their first year.  I’m sure Frater will play on Wednesday because he missed out in their win in Austin on Saturday.” Frater was suspended for New Mexico’s 3-1 win at Bold Stadium in Texas’ capitol city due to picking up his fifth yellow card of the season against the Switchbacks.  “We’ve got to play with a big effort – the guys won’t stop playing hard and giving all they have. We just need to limit our mistakes,” added Trittschuh.

New Mexico United are flying high at the top of the USL Championship Western Conference, with Troy Lesesne’s team not tasting defeat since April 20th.  Following Wednesday match, New Mexico United will not be back in USL Championship action until hosing the OKC Energy FC on June 5th at Isotopes Park in Albuquerque, while the Switchbacks have just two days off before welcoming Fresno FC to Weidner Field on Saturday.  

“We expect New Mexico to be the same good team that we saw here before,” said Jordan Schweitzer on Monday morning in Colorado Springs.  “We began our preparation as soon as the game finished in OKC and we’re looking forward to another game in front of our fans. Getting a result is the most important thing for us and our fans here.  It’s Cup football so that adds a lot for everyone and we’ll look to progress.”

April’s USL Championship Player of the Month Kevaughn Frater notched a hat-trick in the aforementioned game in Colorado Springs, which earned the former Switchbacks striker the Week 11 USL Championship Player of the Week award.  Last season’s Switchbacks captain, Josh Suggs, started for New Mexico United in Colorado Springs, but was removed just after the hour mark. Former Switchbacks midfielder Sam Hamilton did not make the squad for the match against the Switchbacks, but will no doubt be looking for his number to be called for the midweek Open Cup showdown.

Starting goalkeeper Cody Mizell was huge for New Mexico United in their shootout win over Phoenix Rising, with the former Clemson Tiger saving the deciding penalty kick from Phoenix Rising’s A.J. Cochran.  New Mexico’s second-leading-goalscorer Santi Moar will be available to feature on Wednesday, after the dangerous Spanish striker – who already has 9 goals to his name in the 2019 USL Championship – was suspended for the match in Colorado Springs.

“New Mexico are playing well and with a lot of confidence,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “They’re a quality team and they’ve put together a team with the ability to compete for a championship in their first year.  I’m sure Frater will play on Wednesday because he missed out in their win in Austin on Saturday.” Frater was suspended for New Mexico’s 3-1 win at Bold Stadium in Texas’ capitol city due to picking up his fifth yellow card of the season against the Switchbacks.  “We’ve got to play with a big effort – the guys won’t stop playing hard and giving all they have. We just need to limit our mistakes,” added Trittschuh.

New Mexico United are flying high at the top of the USL Championship Western Conference, with Troy Lesesne’s team not tasting defeat since April 20th.  Following Wednesday match, New Mexico United will not be back in USL Championship action until hosing the OKC Energy FC on June 5th at Isotopes Park in Albuquerque, while the Switchbacks have just two days off before welcoming Fresno FC to Weidner Field on Saturday.  

Kwasi Donsu notched the winner for the Switchbacks in the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup against FC Denver, with a goal in first half stoppage time.  Donsu’s debut goal for the Switchbacks will look to be replicated on Wednesday after the Switchbacks dropped a hard-fought 1-0 result at Taft Stadium in Oklahoma City against the Energy FC on Saturday evening.

“I think at the end of the day, Wednesday is another game where we need to perform,” said Schweitzer when asked about a changed-approach for the midweek Open Cup.  “The same things keep happening to us and we haven’t been getting results in the league. But today and this week is another opportunity for us to re-focus. The task at hand is to push forward and move on and get a result on Wednesday.  Our goal is to get a result; that’s what we’re here to do.”

Testy spring weather snarled the Switchbacks’ travel plans after the match in Oklahoma City, as the Switchbacks were delayed in leaving Will Rogers World Airport, only to be diverted mid-flight to Albuquerque International Sunport before they were finally able to head back to Colorado.  

Kwasi Donsu notched the winner for the Switchbacks in the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup against FC Denver, with a goal in first half stoppage time.  Donsu’s debut goal for the Switchbacks will look to be replicated on Wednesday after the Switchbacks dropped a hard-fought 1-0 result at Taft Stadium in Oklahoma City against the Energy FC on Saturday evening.

“I think at the end of the day, Wednesday is another game where we need to perform,” said Schweitzer when asked about a changed-approach for the midweek Open Cup.  “The same things keep happening to us and we haven’t been getting results in the league. But today and this week is another opportunity for us to re-focus. The task at hand is to push forward and move on and get a result on Wednesday.  Our goal is to get a result; that’s what we’re here to do.”

Testy spring weather snarled the Switchbacks’ travel plans after the match in Oklahoma City, as the Switchbacks were delayed in leaving Will Rogers World Airport, only to be diverted mid-flight to Albuquerque International Sunport before they were finally able to head back to Colorado.  

“We didn’t get back to Colorado Springs until at least 12:30am,” said Trittschuh on Monday.  “Luckily we were able to do some stuff in OKC after our game to prepare because we had a late flight to Denver.  We just played New Mexico so they’re fresh in our minds. OKC was the same old story – we played well and we contained OKC’s speed, but we just couldn’t find a goal.  But other than their goal we played well. Some of our decision-making and our execution is killing us right now and we need to put it right.”

After Wednesday’s match, country music star Russell Dickerson will headline Springs Country Fest at Weidner Field on Friday evening, with tickets available HERE.  The following night the Switchbacks host Fresno FC at Weidner Field in USL Championship action, with Pikes Peak Brewing Company sponsoring a free cap giveaway for the first 500 fans.  Tickets can be purchased HERE for the match against Fresno FC.

“We didn’t get back to Colorado Springs until at least 12:30am,” said Trittschuh on Monday.  “Luckily we were able to do some stuff in OKC after our game to prepare because we had a late flight to Denver.  We just played New Mexico so they’re fresh in our minds. OKC was the same old story – we played well and we contained OKC’s speed, but we just couldn’t find a goal.  But other than their goal we played well. Some of our decision-making and our execution is killing us right now and we need to put it right.”

After Wednesday’s match, country music star Russell Dickerson will headline Springs Country Fest at Weidner Field on Friday evening, with tickets available HERE.  The following night the Switchbacks host Fresno FC at Weidner Field in USL Championship action, with Pikes Peak Brewing Company sponsoring a free cap giveaway for the first 500 fans.  Tickets can be purchased HERE for the match against Fresno FC.

It’s back to USL Championship action as the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC host league newcomers New Mexico United at Weidner Field on Saturday evening.  The first 500 fans will receive a free vuvuzela, courtesy of General Dynamics. Saturday’s match between New Mexico United and the Switchbacks also counts towards the first ever Four Corners Cup.  

The Switchbacks moved on in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday night after defeating FC Denver 1-0 at Weidner Field behind a late first-half goal from Kwasi Donsu.  “I feel good after the goal,” said a beaming Donsu. “We played a lot of matches and didn’t score. We talked a lot that we have to win games and I knew today I had to score.  At the end of the day I scored my first goal for the Switchbacks! I’m very happy and thankful that I could score and that we won the game.”

“We got a good goal and we got a win; that’s what we needed,” said Jordan Schweitzer immediately following Wednesday’s win.  “We’ve got to take the positives from this and move forward. Personally, I’m very happy for Donsu – really glad he got the goal and I’m really excited to move forward in the Open Cup.”

“It’s always a goal at the beginning of the season for us to go as far as we can in the Open Cup,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh before saluting the young faces that impressed against FC Denver.  “These first games are always tough because teams come in with a lot of energy. It wasn’t an easy game at all – Denver were direct and it was hard to break them down. It’s a good win and should give us confidence going into the weekend.  I was very glad to get some of the kids in the game. Logan [Dorsey] and Brandon [Farmelo] did really well. And Alejandro Padilla came in after graduating today – he came straight over from graduating at Pine Creek High School and he helped us finish the game out.”

Wednesday night saw New Mexico United defeat Phoenix Rising FC 4-3 on penalty kicks to set up a third round showdown in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup against the Switchbacks at Weidner Field on May 29th.  Spanish striker Santi Moar will be suspended for this Saturday’s match at Weidner Field after New Mexico United’s joint leading scorer was sent off last weekend against El Paso Locomotive FC.  Moar is tied atop New Mexico’s goal-charts with Jamaican Kevaughn Frater. Frater spent the 2017 USL campaign with the Switchbacks, before making his way to Albuquerque after spending a season with Phoenix Rising FC.

Josh Suggs, who captained the Switchbacks last season, will lead New Mexico United into Weidner Field, as the Las Cruces native has been handed the armband in The 505 by Head Coach Troy Lesesne.  Suggs captained New Mexico United last weekend in the fast and furious 2-2 draw with El Paso Locomotive FC in far west Texas. New Mexico have lost just once in their inaugural USL Championship season, and have scored eight goals in their last three league matches.  Suggs made an instant impact as a substitute for New Mexico United on Wednesday by assisting Devon Sandoval with his first touch of the match.

Another former member of the Switchbacks, midfielder Sam Hamilton, was named on the USL Championship Team of the Week bench after his performance and goal against the El Paso Locomotive FC on Mother’s Day.  Hamilton latched onto a delicious cross from Manny Padilla to nod New Mexico United level in first half stoppage time at Southwest University Park.

“New Mexico are a good team – their position in the league shows that,” said Trittschuh as the Switchbacks coaching staff huddled to watch New Mexico United’s U.S. Open Cup extra-time win against Phoenix Rising.  “I worry about the guys who are here and who wanted to be with this group; not on those who left. They chose to leave and our focus as we prepare will be on the entire New Mexico team. New Mexico play with a lot of movement up front and they’re dangerous.  We’ve got to get to a point where we win our games on our home field and we’ll take what we did against Denver into the weekend.”

The Switchbacks will not head to the Land of Enchantment and Isotopes Park to face New Mexico United until September 14th.  Following Saturday’s match the Switchbacks will make their way east to face the Oklahoma City Energy FC next Saturday at Taft Stadium.  The Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field on June 1st as they host Fresno FC, with Pikes Peak Brewing Company sponsoring a free cap giveaway for the first 1,000 fans.

It’s back to USL Championship action as the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC host league newcomers New Mexico United at Weidner Field on Saturday evening.  The first 500 fans will receive a free vuvuzela, courtesy of General Dynamics. Saturday’s match between New Mexico United and the Switchbacks also counts towards the first ever Four Corners Cup.  

The Switchbacks moved on in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday night after defeating FC Denver 1-0 at Weidner Field behind a late first-half goal from Kwasi Donsu.  “I feel good after the goal,” said a beaming Donsu. “We played a lot of matches and didn’t score. We talked a lot that we have to win games and I knew today I had to score.  At the end of the day I scored my first goal for the Switchbacks! I’m very happy and thankful that I could score and that we won the game.”

“We got a good goal and we got a win; that’s what we needed,” said Jordan Schweitzer immediately following Wednesday’s win.  “We’ve got to take the positives from this and move forward. Personally, I’m very happy for Donsu – really glad he got the goal and I’m really excited to move forward in the Open Cup.”

“It’s always a goal at the beginning of the season for us to go as far as we can in the Open Cup,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh before saluting the young faces that impressed against FC Denver.  “These first games are always tough because teams come in with a lot of energy. It wasn’t an easy game at all – Denver were direct and it was hard to break them down. It’s a good win and should give us confidence going into the weekend.  I was very glad to get some of the kids in the game. Logan [Dorsey] and Brandon [Farmelo] did really well. And Alejandro Padilla came in after graduating today – he came straight over from graduating at Pine Creek High School and he helped us finish the game out.”

Wednesday night saw New Mexico United defeat Phoenix Rising FC 4-3 on penalty kicks to set up a third round showdown in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup against the Switchbacks at Weidner Field on May 29th.  Spanish striker Santi Moar will be suspended for this Saturday’s match at Weidner Field after New Mexico United’s joint leading scorer was sent off last weekend against El Paso Locomotive FC.  Moar is tied atop New Mexico’s goal-charts with Jamaican Kevaughn Frater. Frater spent the 2017 USL campaign with the Switchbacks, before making his way to Albuquerque after spending a season with Phoenix Rising FC.

Josh Suggs, who captained the Switchbacks last season, will lead New Mexico United into Weidner Field, as the Las Cruces native has been handed the armband in The 505 by Head Coach Troy Lesesne.  Suggs captained New Mexico United last weekend in the fast and furious 2-2 draw with El Paso Locomotive FC in far west Texas. New Mexico have lost just once in their inaugural USL Championship season, and have scored eight goals in their last three league matches.  Suggs made an instant impact as a substitute for New Mexico United on Wednesday by assisting Devon Sandoval with his first touch of the match.

Another former member of the Switchbacks, midfielder Sam Hamilton, was named on the USL Championship Team of the Week bench after his performance and goal against the El Paso Locomotive FC on Mother’s Day.  Hamilton latched onto a delicious cross from Manny Padilla to nod New Mexico United level in first half stoppage time at Southwest University Park.

“New Mexico are a good team – their position in the league shows that,” said Trittschuh as the Switchbacks coaching staff huddled to watch New Mexico United’s U.S. Open Cup extra-time win against Phoenix Rising.  “I worry about the guys who are here and who wanted to be with this group; not on those who left. They chose to leave and our focus as we prepare will be on the entire New Mexico team. New Mexico play with a lot of movement up front and they’re dangerous.  We’ve got to get to a point where we win our games on our home field and we’ll take what we did against Denver into the weekend.”

The Switchbacks will not head to the Land of Enchantment and Isotopes Park to face New Mexico United until September 14th.  Following Saturday’s match the Switchbacks will make their way east to face the Oklahoma City Energy FC next Saturday at Taft Stadium.  The Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field on June 1st as they host Fresno FC, with Pikes Peak Brewing Company sponsoring a free cap giveaway for the first 1,000 fans.

It’s $3 Margarita Night at Weidner Field as El Paso Locomotive FC make their first ever visit to Colorado Springs to face the Switchbacks FC on Saturday evening.  Pikes Peak National Bank will be sponsoring a bucket hat giveaway for the first 1000 fans.

The Switchbacks have not played since falling to the Tulsa Roughnecks FC 2-0 on Wednesday, April 24th.  On Tuesday morning the Switchbacks returned to practice – albeit indoors due to the spring snow that wafted through Colorado Springs on Monday night.  “The days off help us just re-set the mind,” said center back Jamal Jack. “We’re back now and we have to come out this week and work hard every day and win our games at home.”

“The break was good for everybody,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “The players were able to get away mentally after a tough week with all the travel and a short turnaround.  It was time for them to get a break and regenerate and now we’re here to get back at it.”

“We got away mentally and now we’ve got to come back focused,” said defender Kris Reaves.  “We’ll take a look during the week at El Paso, but this week we’ll focus on our game and the details that make us better.  We’ll get things right this week so we can get a good result on Saturday.”

El Paso notched their second ever win in USL Championship play last Saturday, as they defeated Reno 1868 FC 1-0 at Southwest University Park in the western tip of Texas.  Argentine midfielder Sebastián Contreras won the match for the Locomotive with a 76th minute penalty kick after Jerome Kiesewetter was hauled down in the box.  Contreras and Kiesewetter lead El Paso’s attacking line against Reno, with Irishman Richie Ryan and Scotsman Nick Ross patrolling the center of midfield.  

Berlin born, United States international Kiesewetter spent his formative years in the Hertha Berlin, VfB Stuttgart, and Fortuna Düsseldorf organizations, before making his way stateside to sign with the El Paso Locomotive FC.  Haitian defender Mechack Jérôme was named as a starter on the USL Championship Team of the Week after his performance for the Locomotive FC in helping keep Reno 1868 FC scoreless last Saturday.

“El Paso have good players and they’ve been able to put together a team with a lot of experience – they’re a dangerous team,” said Trittschuh on Tuesday morning.  “We always play well at home and we need to win our games here. Later this week we’ll see who the Rapids will send us. We need all the guys this week to be ready and focused and we’ll need them to show up on Saturday and go for the win.”

Mexican striker Edson Partida and Maine native Derek Gebhard are tied on El Paso’s goal charts with two strikes apiece in 2019.  Former Bradley University Brave Logan Ketterer has posted back-to-back clean sheets for the Locomotive FC, after holding Reno 1868 FC scoreless a week after doing the same to the Austin Bold FC.  Ketterer is one of six Locomotive players to have appeared in all seven matches for El Paso in 2019.

“We’ll look at El Paso this week, but for me the focus right now is on what we do well,” said Switchbacks captain Jordan Burt.  “We’ve put together some good games but just need that final piece. We are close to being a great team – we just need to put it together.”

Following Saturday’s match, the Switchbacks will head to Sin City to face the Las Vegas Lights FC on May 11th, before returning to Weidner Field on the 18th to host high-flying New Mexico United.  General Dynamics will be sponsoring a vuvuzela giveaway for the first 500 fans through the gates for the match against New Mexico United, with the Switchbacks looking to post a vital win in the race for the inaugural Four Corners Cup.

The Switchbacks will visit the Lone Star State and the home of the Locomotive FC and the El Paso Chihuahuas, Southwest University Park, on Saturday, September 21st.

It’s $3 Margarita Night at Weidner Field as El Paso Locomotive FC make their first ever visit to Colorado Springs to face the Switchbacks FC on Saturday evening.  Pikes Peak National Bank will be sponsoring a bucket hat giveaway for the first 1000 fans.

The Switchbacks have not played since falling to the Tulsa Roughnecks FC 2-0 on Wednesday, April 24th.  On Tuesday morning the Switchbacks returned to practice – albeit indoors due to the spring snow that wafted through Colorado Springs on Monday night.  “The days off help us just re-set the mind,” said center back Jamal Jack. “We’re back now and we have to come out this week and work hard every day and win our games at home.”

“The break was good for everybody,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “The players were able to get away mentally after a tough week with all the travel and a short turnaround.  It was time for them to get a break and regenerate and now we’re here to get back at it.”

“We got away mentally and now we’ve got to come back focused,” said defender Kris Reaves.  “We’ll take a look during the week at El Paso, but this week we’ll focus on our game and the details that make us better.  We’ll get things right this week so we can get a good result on Saturday.”

El Paso notched their second ever win in USL Championship play last Saturday, as they defeated Reno 1868 FC 1-0 at Southwest University Park in the western tip of Texas.  Argentine midfielder Sebastián Contreras won the match for the Locomotive with a 76th minute penalty kick after Jerome Kiesewetter was hauled down in the box.  Contreras and Kiesewetter lead El Paso’s attacking line against Reno, with Irishman Richie Ryan and Scotsman Nick Ross patrolling the center of midfield.  

Berlin born, United States international Kiesewetter spent his formative years in the Hertha Berlin, VfB Stuttgart, and Fortuna Düsseldorf organizations, before making his way stateside to sign with the El Paso Locomotive FC.  Haitian defender Mechack Jérôme was named as a starter on the USL Championship Team of the Week after his performance for the Locomotive FC in helping keep Reno 1868 FC scoreless last Saturday.

“El Paso have good players and they’ve been able to put together a team with a lot of experience – they’re a dangerous team,” said Trittschuh on Tuesday morning.  “We always play well at home and we need to win our games here. Later this week we’ll see who the Rapids will send us. We need all the guys this week to be ready and focused and we’ll need them to show up on Saturday and go for the win.”

Mexican striker Edson Partida and Maine native Derek Gebhard are tied on El Paso’s goal charts with two strikes apiece in 2019.  Former Bradley University Brave Logan Ketterer has posted back-to-back clean sheets for the Locomotive FC, after holding Reno 1868 FC scoreless a week after doing the same to the Austin Bold FC.  Ketterer is one of six Locomotive players to have appeared in all seven matches for El Paso in 2019.

“We’ll look at El Paso this week, but for me the focus right now is on what we do well,” said Switchbacks captain Jordan Burt.  “We’ve put together some good games but just need that final piece. We are close to being a great team – we just need to put it together.”

Following Saturday’s match, the Switchbacks will head to Sin City to face the Las Vegas Lights FC on May 11th, before returning to Weidner Field on the 18th to host high-flying New Mexico United.  General Dynamics will be sponsoring a vuvuzela giveaway for the first 500 fans through the gates for the match against New Mexico United, with the Switchbacks looking to post a vital win in the race for the inaugural Four Corners Cup.

The Switchbacks will visit the Lone Star State and the home of the Locomotive FC and the El Paso Chihuahuas, Southwest University Park, on Saturday, September 21st.

The Switchbacks head to Oklahoma for their first midweek USL Championship match of the season as they face the Tulsa Roughnecks FC on Wednesday evening at ONEOK Field.  Saturday evening saw the Switchbacks draw 2-2 with the Portland Timbers 2 in Oregon after a wild second half that included another penalty kick save from the Switchbacks’ Abraham Rodriguez.  

Jordan Burt had given the Switchbacks the lead at Merlo Field in the Rose City against T2 with a penalty kick after Shane Malcolm had been hauled down, only for Foster Langsdorf to equalize for the hosts.  Jordan Schweitzer looked to have won the game for the Switchbacks with a brilliant 84th minute finish, only for Langsdorf to secure the draw for T2 just two minutes later.  

“I think we dropped two points in Portland but in the end, we got a result and that’s what we’ve always talked about needing to do on the road,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh on Monday morning.  “From what I’ve seen initially, Tulsa have scored a lot of goals on re-starts so we have to prepare for that. It’s a smaller field so we have to be smart. The time and travel is kind of ridiculous. We didn’t get home until 6pm, the players have a quick regeneration today, then we leave at 6am tomorrow for Tulsa.  We’ll have to make a few changes and I hope they’ll step up. The guys we bring in will be fresh and we need that.”

“The key is to take care of our bodies,” said Jordan Schweitzer at a frigid Weidner Field on Monday.  “We’re here today to get our legs back. At the end of the day, we just have to deal with it and go to Tulsa and perform against a good team.”

“We have to approach Tulsa with the right mentality,” said Switchbacks captain Jordan Burt.  “We know they can score from set pieces. We have to make sure we don’t foul them in dangerous areas, and we have to stay switched on.  Our guys have got to win that battle.”

Roughnecks Head Coach Michael Nsien’s team have not played since falling 3-1 to Fresno FC at Chukchansi Park on April 13th.  Portuguese striker Janú Silva scored the Roughnecks’ lone goal of the game with a towering header in the 39th minute after a crisp cross from Cristhian Altamirano on the right wing.

Brazil’s Luca Lobo tops Tulsa’s stat line and is tied for the USL’s lead in goals with 7 in 2019.  Fellow Brazilian Rodrigo da Costa stands alone atop the Roughnecks’ stat chart in assists with 5, with former Switchbacks forward AJ Ajeakwa having notched an assist in his four appearances this season.  Another past member of the Switchbacks, Nigerian striker Tobenna Uzo, has found his opportunities limited in 2019 with the Roughnecks, as Uzo has logged just 44 minutes from Tulsa’s bench.

“Lobo is a left-back with that many goals – it just shows they score a lot from their re-starts,” said Trittschuh.  “For me looking at them, Tulsa are very athletic as a team so we’ve got to make sure we track them. It will be important for us to create space on that field that’s just 70 yards wide.”

Tulsa have won their last two matches at ONEOK Field by a combined score of 6-1.  On March 23rd, Tulsa blitzed the Tacoma Defiance 4-0 behind a brace from Luca Lobo, and the following Friday the Roughnecks defeated Rio Grande Valley FC 2-1 as Fabián Bastidas scored the winner in first half stoppage time.  

The Roughnecks will face the Switchbacks on Movie Night at Weidner Field on Saturday, July 13th, with the Better Business Bureau sponsoring the 3rd Poster Giveaway of 2019.  

Following the tilt in Tulsa on Wednesday night, the Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field on May 4th as they host USL Championship newcomers El Paso Locomotive FC on $3 margarita night.  Pikes Peak National Bank will be sponsoring a bucket hat giveaway for the first 1,000 fans at Weidner Field.

The Switchbacks head to Oklahoma for their first midweek USL Championship match of the season as they face the Tulsa Roughnecks FC on Wednesday evening at ONEOK Field.  Saturday evening saw the Switchbacks draw 2-2 with the Portland Timbers 2 in Oregon after a wild second half that included another penalty kick save from the Switchbacks’ Abraham Rodriguez.  

Jordan Burt had given the Switchbacks the lead at Merlo Field in the Rose City against T2 with a penalty kick after Shane Malcolm had been hauled down, only for Foster Langsdorf to equalize for the hosts.  Jordan Schweitzer looked to have won the game for the Switchbacks with a brilliant 84th minute finish, only for Langsdorf to secure the draw for T2 just two minutes later.  

“I think we dropped two points in Portland but in the end, we got a result and that’s what we’ve always talked about needing to do on the road,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh on Monday morning.  “From what I’ve seen initially, Tulsa have scored a lot of goals on re-starts so we have to prepare for that. It’s a smaller field so we have to be smart. The time and travel is kind of ridiculous. We didn’t get home until 6pm, the players have a quick regeneration today, then we leave at 6am tomorrow for Tulsa.  We’ll have to make a few changes and I hope they’ll step up. The guys we bring in will be fresh and we need that.”

“The key is to take care of our bodies,” said Jordan Schweitzer at a frigid Weidner Field on Monday.  “We’re here today to get our legs back. At the end of the day, we just have to deal with it and go to Tulsa and perform against a good team.”

“We have to approach Tulsa with the right mentality,” said Switchbacks captain Jordan Burt.  “We know they can score from set pieces. We have to make sure we don’t foul them in dangerous areas, and we have to stay switched on.  Our guys have got to win that battle.”

Roughnecks Head Coach Michael Nsien’s team have not played since falling 3-1 to Fresno FC at Chukchansi Park on April 13th.  Portuguese striker Janú Silva scored the Roughnecks’ lone goal of the game with a towering header in the 39th minute after a crisp cross from Cristhian Altamirano on the right wing.

Brazil’s Luca Lobo tops Tulsa’s stat line and is tied for the USL’s lead in goals with 7 in 2019.  Fellow Brazilian Rodrigo da Costa stands alone atop the Roughnecks’ stat chart in assists with 5, with former Switchbacks forward AJ Ajeakwa having notched an assist in his four appearances this season.  Another past member of the Switchbacks, Nigerian striker Tobenna Uzo, has found his opportunities limited in 2019 with the Roughnecks, as Uzo has logged just 44 minutes from Tulsa’s bench.

“Lobo is a left-back with that many goals – it just shows they score a lot from their re-starts,” said Trittschuh.  “For me looking at them, Tulsa are very athletic as a team so we’ve got to make sure we track them. It will be important for us to create space on that field that’s just 70 yards wide.”

Tulsa have won their last two matches at ONEOK Field by a combined score of 6-1.  On March 23rd, Tulsa blitzed the Tacoma Defiance 4-0 behind a brace from Luca Lobo, and the following Friday the Roughnecks defeated Rio Grande Valley FC 2-1 as Fabián Bastidas scored the winner in first half stoppage time.  

The Roughnecks will face the Switchbacks on Movie Night at Weidner Field on Saturday, July 13th, with the Better Business Bureau sponsoring the 3rd Poster Giveaway of 2019.  

Following the tilt in Tulsa on Wednesday night, the Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field on May 4th as they host USL Championship newcomers El Paso Locomotive FC on $3 margarita night.  Pikes Peak National Bank will be sponsoring a bucket hat giveaway for the first 1,000 fans at Weidner Field.

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC make their way to the Rose City to take on the Portland Timbers 2 this Saturday evening at Merlo Field on the campus of the University of Portland.  Last weekend, wild, winter-like conditions blasted Colorado Springs causing a near-three-hour delay before the Switchbacks fell 2-0 to visiting Reno 1868 FC.

“The weather and the delay affected us against Reno,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh on Wednesday morning.  “Professional players are creatures of habit, and it was hard for us not knowing when the game would start. In the first half we played well but it’s the same story; we just didn’t take our chances.  Reno’s first goal was a bad mistake – we couldn’t clear the ball. But the players have had a good attitude. We talked on Tuesday as a group and I told them we’ve been playing well, but that we just need more quality when we have chances.”

The Switchbacks outshot Reno 24 to 15, and both outcrossed and out-possessed the visitors from the Biggest Little City in the World last Saturday at Weidner Field.  Mike Seth was unlucky to not win his team a first half penalty kick after a Reno handball, and now the Switchbacks will spend the week preparing in Colorado Springs to face the USL Championship’s Western Conference leaders in T2.

“Portland are getting a lot of results at the top of the table,” said Switchbacks captain Jordan Burt.  “It’s a good place to play and we’ve always done well there in the past. The guys love playing on the good field there and we’ll be looking to bounce back.”

“We have to get a result this week because we fell short against Reno,” said center back Jamal Jack.  “It will be tough in training because we’ll be fighting for spots – the players will do their best this week because we all want to play in Portland.”

On Saturday the Timbers 2 defeated Sacramento Republic 1-0 behind a 29th minute penalty kick from Gambian captain Modou Jadama.  The win moved T2 into first place in the USL Championship Western Conference, with Head Coach Cameron Knowles’ team tied on points with red-hot New Mexico United – although T2 have a game in hand.

“Portland are a good, solid team,” said Trittschuh.  “They have good players in attack and they’re doing well this season.  We always play well on the road on a good field – and Portland have the best field in the league.  [Foster] Langsdorf and [Brayan] Hurtado very good players. [Eryk] Williamson and Todd Wharton played well against Sacramento – Portland have good players and their defense is solid and they have a lot of MLS experience.  They’re playing well, so we’ve got to go and play our game and take our chances.”

June 17th of 2018 saw the Switchbacks run away 4-1 winners at Merlo Field, fueled by a brace from Jordan Burt.  Later this season, the Switchbacks will host T2 on Wednesday, August 7th at Weidner Field with Centura Orthopedics sponsoring a cowbell giveaway for the first 500 fans in attendance.  

“Portland are playing well offensively so we need to get off to a good start and we have to be better and that starts at training today,” said Rony Argueta on Tuesday morning.  “This week we will work to get some good insight about Portland. From what I’ve seen, they’re really organized and they’ll build from the back no matter what. Portland are a young team and they’re full of energy and we know it’s a difficult place to play.  It’s tough to forget about the game against Reno and put it away, but we have to because if we don’t move on, we lose focus on what’s next.”

The Switchbacks face a tight turnaround after Saturday’s match in the great Pacific Northwest, as they will return to Colorado Springs before making their way to Oklahoma for a midweek showdown with the Tulsa Roughnecks FC on April 24th.  May 4th will see the Switchbacks return to Weidner Field as they host El Paso Locomotive FC on $3 margarita night.  Pikes Peak National Bank will be sponsoring a bucket hat giveaway for the first 1,000 fans at Weidner Field.

The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC make their way to the Rose City to take on the Portland Timbers 2 this Saturday evening at Merlo Field on the campus of the University of Portland.  Last weekend, wild, winter-like conditions blasted Colorado Springs causing a near-three-hour delay before the Switchbacks fell 2-0 to visiting Reno 1868 FC.

“The weather and the delay affected us against Reno,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh on Wednesday morning.  “Professional players are creatures of habit, and it was hard for us not knowing when the game would start. In the first half we played well but it’s the same story; we just didn’t take our chances.  Reno’s first goal was a bad mistake – we couldn’t clear the ball. But the players have had a good attitude. We talked on Tuesday as a group and I told them we’ve been playing well, but that we just need more quality when we have chances.”

The Switchbacks outshot Reno 24 to 15, and both outcrossed and out-possessed the visitors from the Biggest Little City in the World last Saturday at Weidner Field.  Mike Seth was unlucky to not win his team a first half penalty kick after a Reno handball, and now the Switchbacks will spend the week preparing in Colorado Springs to face the USL Championship’s Western Conference leaders in T2.

“Portland are getting a lot of results at the top of the table,” said Switchbacks captain Jordan Burt.  “It’s a good place to play and we’ve always done well there in the past. The guys love playing on the good field there and we’ll be looking to bounce back.”

“We have to get a result this week because we fell short against Reno,” said center back Jamal Jack.  “It will be tough in training because we’ll be fighting for spots – the players will do their best this week because we all want to play in Portland.”

On Saturday the Timbers 2 defeated Sacramento Republic 1-0 behind a 29th minute penalty kick from Gambian captain Modou Jadama.  The win moved T2 into first place in the USL Championship Western Conference, with Head Coach Cameron Knowles’ team tied on points with red-hot New Mexico United – although T2 have a game in hand.

“Portland are a good, solid team,” said Trittschuh.  “They have good players in attack and they’re doing well this season.  We always play well on the road on a good field – and Portland have the best field in the league.  [Foster] Langsdorf and [Brayan] Hurtado very good players. [Eryk] Williamson and Todd Wharton played well against Sacramento – Portland have good players and their defense is solid and they have a lot of MLS experience.  They’re playing well, so we’ve got to go and play our game and take our chances.”

June 17th of 2018 saw the Switchbacks run away 4-1 winners at Merlo Field, fueled by a brace from Jordan Burt.  Later this season, the Switchbacks will host T2 on Wednesday, August 7th at Weidner Field with Centura Orthopedics sponsoring a cowbell giveaway for the first 500 fans in attendance.  

“Portland are playing well offensively so we need to get off to a good start and we have to be better and that starts at training today,” said Rony Argueta on Tuesday morning.  “This week we will work to get some good insight about Portland. From what I’ve seen, they’re really organized and they’ll build from the back no matter what. Portland are a young team and they’re full of energy and we know it’s a difficult place to play.  It’s tough to forget about the game against Reno and put it away, but we have to because if we don’t move on, we lose focus on what’s next.”

The Switchbacks face a tight turnaround after Saturday’s match in the great Pacific Northwest, as they will return to Colorado Springs before making their way to Oklahoma for a midweek showdown with the Tulsa Roughnecks FC on April 24th.  May 4th will see the Switchbacks return to Weidner Field as they host El Paso Locomotive FC on $3 margarita night.  Pikes Peak National Bank will be sponsoring a bucket hat giveaway for the first 1,000 fans at Weidner Field.

Reno 1868 FC visit Weidner Field this Saturday evening as the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC look to solidify their position inside the top ten of the USL Championship’s Western Conference table.  The first 500 fans in attendance will receive a drawstring backpack, courtesy of Capelli Sport, and the second part of the Switchbacks poster series, courtesy of the Gazette newspaper.

Both of Saturday’s opponents fell to defeats last weekend, with Reno 1868 going down 3-1 in Salt Lake City to the Real Monarchs, while the Switchbacks were beaten 2-0 in the Golden State by Orange County SC.  

Reno 1868 have a roster stacked full of talent, with Zach Carroll, Brent Richards, and Duke Lacroix marshalling the defense in front of two goalkeepers that have seen USL Championship time in 2019: Matt Bersano and James Marcinkowski.  Former Seattle University Redhawks standouts Nathan Aune and Sergio Rivas are also on Reno’s books, with Rivas having appeared as a second-half substitute in Saturday’s loss in Utah.

Jamaican hitman Brian Brown leads Reno’s goal-chart with four, with the effervescent striker forming a deadly partnership alongside Corey Hertzog.  “To stop Brian Brown we have to deny him the ball,” said Switchbacks Assistant Coach and former Jamaican international Wolde Harris. “He’s strong, athletic, and fast so we’ve got to be on our toes and know where he is at all times.  But what’s most important is to deny him service. [Corey] Hertzog is a good player too. He’s mobile and he looks to get in behind and stretch the defense and it’s going to be key to stop their service and keep them out of good spaces.”

“We’re a good defensive team – we just gave two soft goals in OC,” said Shane Malcolm.  “We need to limit players like Brown and we have to cut off his service and play him out of the game.”

The Switchbacks defeated Reno 1868 during preseason in the Wasatch Winter Cup 4-1 behind a brace from Ish Jome and goals from Malcolm and Mike Seth.  “Preseason is preseason – I think it will be a different team and a different game,” said Seth. “They’re a good team with a lot of talent. We’ve got to show up and be ready at home.  We know it’ll be tough for them to play here and we need to take advantage of being home.”

“We had an opportunity to play them in preseason, which is always good,” said Jordan Schweitzer.  “Reno have a better understanding of each other now, and we have the same thing. It’s difficult for teams to come into Weidner Field and get a win.  I expect Reno to come in and battle and we understand that it will be a fight.”

Former Penn State Nittany Lions star Hertzog, who leads Reno with two assists in 2019, missed an early penalty kick against the Real Monarchs last Saturday, and was removed at halftime as part of a double substitution by Head Coach Ian Russell.  The changes brought Reno an 81st minute goal from one of the aforementioned subs, Aidan Apodaca.  

“We know that Brown has got speed and strength and we have got to watch him,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “He has an eye for goal, so we’ve got to be aware of him – but they’ve got other dangerous players. Reno are a good, solid team and they play their system well under Ian [Russell] who is a good coach.  We have got to have better intensity than we did in OC and we’ve got to play better. The speed of our play has to be quicker to break things down and of course we can’t give up re-start goals like we did in OC.”

“I’m sure Reno will come in flying so we need to be ready on Saturday,” said midfielder Alex Molano early Wednesday morning – his birthday.  “It feels good to be back at home and we’ll need to take advantage of that and win our games at home.”

The Switchbacks will visit Greater Nevada Field in The Biggest Little City in the World on July 27th.  A trip to the Rose City to face the Portland Timbers 2 awaits the Switchbacks on April 20th following Saturday’s match against Reno 1868.  A first midweek game of 2019 will follow, with the Switchbacks making their way to ONEOK Field for an April 24th showdown with the table-topping Tulsa Roughnecks FC.  The Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field on May 4th as they host El Paso Locomotive FC on $3 margarita night, with the first 500 fans receiving a bucket hat courtesy of Pikes Peak National Bank.

Reno 1868 FC visit Weidner Field this Saturday evening as the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC look to solidify their position inside the top ten of the USL Championship’s Western Conference table.  The first 500 fans in attendance will receive a drawstring backpack, courtesy of Capelli Sport, and the second part of the Switchbacks poster series, courtesy of the Gazette newspaper.

Both of Saturday’s opponents fell to defeats last weekend, with Reno 1868 going down 3-1 in Salt Lake City to the Real Monarchs, while the Switchbacks were beaten 2-0 in the Golden State by Orange County SC.  

Reno 1868 have a roster stacked full of talent, with Zach Carroll, Brent Richards, and Duke Lacroix marshalling the defense in front of two goalkeepers that have seen USL Championship time in 2019: Matt Bersano and James Marcinkowski.  Former Seattle University Redhawks standouts Nathan Aune and Sergio Rivas are also on Reno’s books, with Rivas having appeared as a second-half substitute in Saturday’s loss in Utah.

Jamaican hitman Brian Brown leads Reno’s goal-chart with four, with the effervescent striker forming a deadly partnership alongside Corey Hertzog.  “To stop Brian Brown we have to deny him the ball,” said Switchbacks Assistant Coach and former Jamaican international Wolde Harris. “He’s strong, athletic, and fast so we’ve got to be on our toes and know where he is at all times.  But what’s most important is to deny him service. [Corey] Hertzog is a good player too. He’s mobile and he looks to get in behind and stretch the defense and it’s going to be key to stop their service and keep them out of good spaces.”

“We’re a good defensive team – we just gave two soft goals in OC,” said Shane Malcolm.  “We need to limit players like Brown and we have to cut off his service and play him out of the game.”

The Switchbacks defeated Reno 1868 during preseason in the Wasatch Winter Cup 4-1 behind a brace from Ish Jome and goals from Malcolm and Mike Seth.  “Preseason is preseason – I think it will be a different team and a different game,” said Seth. “They’re a good team with a lot of talent. We’ve got to show up and be ready at home.  We know it’ll be tough for them to play here and we need to take advantage of being home.”

“We had an opportunity to play them in preseason, which is always good,” said Jordan Schweitzer.  “Reno have a better understanding of each other now, and we have the same thing. It’s difficult for teams to come into Weidner Field and get a win.  I expect Reno to come in and battle and we understand that it will be a fight.”

Former Penn State Nittany Lions star Hertzog, who leads Reno with two assists in 2019, missed an early penalty kick against the Real Monarchs last Saturday, and was removed at halftime as part of a double substitution by Head Coach Ian Russell.  The changes brought Reno an 81st minute goal from one of the aforementioned subs, Aidan Apodaca.  

“We know that Brown has got speed and strength and we have got to watch him,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Steve Trittschuh.  “He has an eye for goal, so we’ve got to be aware of him – but they’ve got other dangerous players. Reno are a good, solid team and they play their system well under Ian [Russell] who is a good coach.  We have got to have better intensity than we did in OC and we’ve got to play better. The speed of our play has to be quicker to break things down and of course we can’t give up re-start goals like we did in OC.”

“I’m sure Reno will come in flying so we need to be ready on Saturday,” said midfielder Alex Molano early Wednesday morning – his birthday.  “It feels good to be back at home and we’ll need to take advantage of that and win our games at home.”

The Switchbacks will visit Greater Nevada Field in The Biggest Little City in the World on July 27th.  A trip to the Rose City to face the Portland Timbers 2 awaits the Switchbacks on April 20th following Saturday’s match against Reno 1868.  A first midweek game of 2019 will follow, with the Switchbacks making their way to ONEOK Field for an April 24th showdown with the table-topping Tulsa Roughnecks FC.  The Switchbacks will return to Weidner Field on May 4th as they host El Paso Locomotive FC on $3 margarita night, with the first 500 fans receiving a bucket hat courtesy of Pikes Peak National Bank.