Gashi's first MLS goal gives Rapids 2-1 win over Sporting KC

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) Shkelzen Gashi scored his first MLS goal in the 82nd minute and the Colorado Rapids beat Sporting Kansas City 2-1 on Wednesday night.

Gashi followed as Dillon Serna's 35-yard knuckler crashed off the crossbar and finished the rebound with a left-footed roundhouse kick. The Rapids (3-2-1) acquired Gashi as a designated player prior to the season.

Luis Solignac gave Colorado the early lead, slotting one past goalkeeper Tim Melia inside the near post in the 41st minute. Marco Pappa picked Lawrence Olum at midfield and set up Solignac on the right side of the 18-yard box.

Sporting KC (4-2-0) tied it in the 77th minute when Dom Dwyer slipped away from the defender Bobby Burling in the middle of the area for an open header off Connor Hallisey's diagonal cross. It was Dwyer's fourth goal of the season.