DENVER - The Colorado Rapids announced today the signing of Panamanian forward Roberto Brown. Per club policy, details of the contracts were not disclosed. Brown's addition to the 2007 Rapids roster is pending on his work visa approval by the U.S. Government.
"Roberto is a player that has the physical attributes as well as the international experience to be able make an immediate impact in our league," said Colorado Rapids Head Coach Fernando Clavijo. "His addition to the offensive line will help solve the scoring drought issues from last season. His aggressive style of play will fit in well with our other forwards."
Brown is a dangerous forward with international experience. Nicknamed "El Bombardero" (The Bombardier) for his powerful shots, Brown was on Panama's surprise 2005 Gold Cup team that lost the final to the USA in a penalty shootout despite being a underdog to even advance out of their group. In qualifying for the 2006 World Cup, Brown scored a 69th minute goal against the United States in a game the Americans were lucky to tie. The 29 year old comes to Colorado from Tacuarembo FC in the Uruguayan first division.
"Fernando's experienced eye for scouting talent, along with the strategic partnerships that we are building with selected teams around the world, have led us to be able to reach out to players like Brown," said Colorado Rapids Managing Director Jeff Plush. "The more prominently we position our club on the world's stage, the more we will be able to benefit from the relationships we build around the globe."
The Rapids open their season on April 7 when they take on D.C. United at Dick's Sporting Goods Park in a 1:30 p.m. (MT) kickoff. Season tickets are available by calling the Rapids at (303) 825-GOAL or online at www.coloradorapids.com.
