four minutes later it was evident that Mulrooney had more then just a sprain.
"The second time it gave out on him again, I think a lot of it has to do with Rich's determination and wanting to play," said Vanney. "In talking to Rich he didn't have a lot of pain, just knew something weird had happened. So he was going to try and stick it out, the second time it was kind of a clear sign that things weren't right in there."
The midfielder came to FC Dallas along with Arturo Alvarez from the San Jose Earthquakes in a trade in January for Brad Davis. A two-time MLS Cup winner with the Quakes (2001 and 2003), the hustling midfielder said one of the things he will always remember is assisting U.S. international star Landon Donovan on his first MLS goal.
"The team has been great to me. They have called or visited with me in the locker room. It may not help me physically but mentally it lets me know the team is behind me," Mulrooney said.
Mulrooney will be out for approximately six months with the operation and physical therapy. The team has taken a proactive stance with his injury having him rehab and strengthen the muscle prior to his operation.
"It is what it is, I have to face that," he said. "I will come back at 100 percent ... I will be back next year and ready to go in the new stadium."
Despite the blow, there was a noticeable reaction to the loss of the Tennessee native in the second half of Wednesday's match against the Colorado Rapids, when the Hoops overcame a one-goal disadvantage at the half, scoring a pair of goals for a 2-1 come-from-behind win.
"Mentally and psychologically we are all disappointed for Rich and we know we are going to miss him," Vanney said. "Having said that I think it is something for the guys to add a little bit more for the team, because we want to win matches for Rich, who wishes he was out there for sure. Also it adds motivation for us to try and continue the way things are going and continue to get results."
Ron Goode is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
