COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – From the moment the Bundesliga’s Mainz 05 pulled out to a three-goal lead late in the first half of in its clash with the USL’s Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC in Tuesday night’s international exhibition at Switchbacks Stadium, the destination of the Freedom Cup wasn’t in doubt.

For the Switchbacks’ players, however, the chance to compete on the same field with players who have both represented their country internationally, and will compete in the UEFA Europa League this fall was one to remember.

“It was tough to lose,” said defender Kevin Durr following the game. “But, at the end of the day this game isn't near as important as our league games. I never thought I'd be here in Colorado Springs playing against a team I've followed since childhood. It's perhaps a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I'll cherish it forever.”

A strong contingent of fans arrived at Switchbacks Stadium to throw their support behind the visitors, who finished sixth in the German top flight a season ago, and saw the second-best finish in club history highlighted by a victory on the road against Bayern Munich.

Argentine forward Pablo De Blasis gave those fans cause to celebrate early, as he gave the side the lead in the sixth minute, but thanks to some fine goalkeeping by Devala Gorrick, the Switchbacks were able to stay in touch for most of the first half. Late on, though, Mainz’s quality started to show, and it pulled away to take a comfortable lead just over 10 minutes into the second half.

Coming off a game on Sunday night in Seattle, and with a key league contest against Sacramento Republic FC this Saturday night, Switchbacks Coach Steve Trittschuh was mindful of rationing his player’s minutes on the night, with one eye on the night’s festivities, and another on the upcoming schedule.

“You have to keep tonight's game in perspective,” Trittschuh said. “They're one of the tougher Bundesliga teams, technically they're a lot better than us. I know we had some tire legs out there from this past weekend’s match, but now we've just got to get ready for Saturday.”

Despite the result, though, the Switchbacks players left the game feeling positive about the experience.

“It was a tough match,” said defender J.J. Greer. “They're very good technically and a tough team to play. But it was a good experience, and fun to play a well-known team.”