Real Salt Lake has a road game against a resurgent Austin FC side. Can they get it done?
Zavier Gozo is a good-looking player. He scored his first-ever MLS goal last Saturday against Vancouver. Although the match didn’t go RSL’s way, it was still awesome to see Gozo score. Against Vancouver, RSL scored two goals in the first four minutes before allowing two goals late in the first half for a 2-2 tie. Vancouver would convert a late penalty kick to win 3-2. RSL is now winless in five straight matches and needs a spark to turn it around fast.
Diego Luna has been excellent, but RSL will need to get goals from more than just him. Gozo, as mentioned earlier, appears to be a quality player. RSL needs both Luna and Gozo to be locked at, and they need support from other players as well.
RSL on defense has a similar problem to last year—a lack of depth. Justen Glad and Braian Vera are the only options for playing center-back, and Alexandros Katranis and Andrew Brody are the best options for outside backs. RSL needs to be aggressive in the summer transfer window.
RSL can score. The two goals in four minutes against Vancouver were proof of that. The main problem is that once RSL gets a goal or two, they can become complacent and struggle defensively. Everyone needs to be looked in tonight for 90 minutes and stay aggressive. RSL has the talent and explosive ability to win matches. The key is getting the players on the pitch to work together for 90 minutes. Some of the passes and marking issues could be mitigated with proper communication.
One thing RSL has going for them is Rafael Cabral, the goalkeeper. He has been a strong force in goal, and he has saved two penalties, keeping RSL in matches. Also, his ability to play the ball quickly has helped RSL get goals. He has locked up the starting spot and should be ready to go tonight.
Keys to the game: At Austin FC:
- Stay Organized: RSL needs to play smart and organized. Too often, they are getting punished for stupid turnovers. Play the smart ball, and don’t get out of shape.
- Play on the front foot: Austin is a tough place to play, and it won’t be easy, but if RSL can come out swinging, they should be ok.
- Don’t get complacent: RSL has been lulled to sleep too often by opponents. They need to stay aggressive and not get caught sleeping.
RSL has a tough test in Austin. But they can win it. RSL will need to stay organized, stay on the front foot, and not get complacent. It’s RSL’s chance to get back on track, and Austin is a place where RSL would love to get a win.
Real Salt Lake will be in action tonight at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas. The match will be streamed live on MLS Season Pass (English and Spanish) and KSL Radio (English).
