It took some time for the Colorado Rapids to find a rhythm in Wednesday night’s game against Sporting Kansas City, but the introduction of midfielder Dillon Serna made an instant impact.

Substituted into the game in the 76th minute, Serna scored his first goal of the season just two minutes later to lead the Rapids to a 1-0 victory over Sporting KC at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. The Rapids have opened the season by winning its first six games at home. With Los Angeles’ draw against Philadelphia Wednesday night, the Rapids extend their lead atop the conference to three points.

Two minutes prior to Serna’s goal, Sporting KC defender Ike Opara picked up his second yellow card of the match, sending the visitors to 10 men for the remainder of the match. Marc Burch’s ensuing free kick was cleared, but fell to Serna, who cut to his left and fired a shot low and hard into the right corner.

Sporting KC had a perhaps its best chance of the game in stoppage time with a free kick about 25 yards from goal. But Dom Dwyer’s shot was cleared in front of goal to preserve the shut out, keeping Sporting  winless in its last seven matches.

MAN OF THE MATCH

Dillon Serna was in the game for just two minutes, but he made an instant impact for Colorado. Serna’s goal gave the Rapids a 1-0 lead and they were able to hold on against a short-sided KC team.

MOMENT OF THE MATCH

Although a questionable call, Ike Opara fouled Jermaine Jones going down the right flank and the referee gave the defender his second yellow card, and awarded the Rapids with a free kick. Although the kick was cleared at first, it ultimately led the game-winning goal from Serna.

MATCH TO FORGET

Opara’s red card in the 76th minute played a big factor into how the game-winning goal was scored. Sporting KC was forced to defend the set piece and play the remainder of the match with 10 men. Although it was a questionable call from the referee, Opara put his team in a tough position that paved the way for defeat.