Over the past few weeks, in a crowded Western Conference, the Colorado Springs Switchbacks have been unable to separate themselves from the pack.
Though the United Soccer League Championship side has now extended an in-league unbeaten run to five games, 0-0 draws in their last two, against New Mexico United and Detroit City have left the Switchbacks unable to climb the standings. The Switchbacks now sit in sixth place, six points above the playoff line and just four points back from second place in the Western Conference.
Before those draws, wins against San Antonio FC and, arguably in the game of the year, over Loudoun United FC in a 5-4 thriller, had the Switchbacks as high as third place.
In the USL Cup, the Switchbacks fell just short against Hartford Athletic in a close semi-final, which finished 2-1 to the Connecticut side. Hartford will attempt to go back-to-back this Sunday, Oct. 4, when they face Louisville City.
Given USL’s playoff structure, the Switchbacks’ final four games of the season will be focused on ensuring a top four spot, guaranteeing at least one home playoff game. They have a good chance of doing just that.
On Saturday, Oct. 3, they hosted the Oakland Roots, who currently sit in ninth position, outside of the playoffs. A California road trip then takes the Switchbacks to Monterey Bay and Sacramento, before heading home for the regular season finale against FC Tulsa. Monterey Bay FC, last in the West and winless since June, provides a good opportunity for much-needed points, while games against Sacramento Republic and FC Tulsa offer a great chance to pick up wins against teams close to the Switchbacks in the standings.