After a big win in Houston, can the Claret and Cobalt make it two in a row against Texas teams?
Real Salt Lake finally lifted the Houston curse, winning 2-1 in Texas. Midfielder Diego Luna had a goal and an assist while goalkeeper Rafael Cabral made several key saves. The Claret and Cobalt looked complete from start to finish, and the Dynamo couldn’t keep up. RSL’s first-minute goal was huge in the success of that match.
Real Salt Lake is showing some promise. The attack is figuring itself out, and the defense is plugging the holes. The midfield looks solid with Diego Luna in control, and the goalkeeping battle seems to have been solidified. Pablo Masteroni has his men on an upward trend, and RSL looks dangerous.
Dallas presents a new challenge for RSL. They have attacking geniuses Peter Musa and Anthony Ramirez who can create problems for the struggling RSL backline. Add on the former RSL striker Anderson Julio and this could be a real test for Justen Glad and the backline.
RSL has no shortage of attacking power either. Forester Ajago has shown he can create big chances. Pablo Ruiz has proven time and time again that he can score from distance. Unfortunately for RSL, Diego Luna and Diogo Goncalves won’t be available due to National Team duty.
RSL has a developing backline and it looks good. Veterans Justen Glad and Briain Vera pair well with younger defenders Kobi Henry and Javian Brown. RSL also has Alexandros Katranis, Phillip Quintion, and Javion Brown to provide depth.
Real Salt Lake will need to start hot and stay hot on Saturday. Dallas is a good team on the counterattack and RSL will need to be careful about how many players they send forward, mitigating the risk of being caught out in transition.
Keys to the game for Real Salt Lake
- Stay organized on defense: RSL has been caught out too many times because of a lack of defensive organization. Cabral and the backline need to communicate constantly to ensure that there are no gaps in the backline.
- Possess the ball: FC Dallas is a good counterattacking team. RSL will need to keep the ball as much as they can and create good chances to keep the Dallas attack at bay.
- Take smart shots: RSL sometimes gets trigger-happy and takes poor shots, especially in late-game situations where every moment counts. The Claret and Cobalt will need to be smart and intentional in their passing and shooting, especially if they are trailing late.
Overall, Real Salt Lake has a chance to make a big run in the league, starting with the home match against Dallas. RSL will need to stay organized defensively, possess the ball, and take smart shots to beat Dallas. RSL has potential and will need to stay focused as well as keep the home crowd in it.
