Real Salt Lake and the Colorado Rapids meet for the 20th Rocky Mountain Cup. Let’s look at the scenarios.
It’s no secret. RSL and the Colorado Rapids do not like each other. The Rocky Mountain Cup is the trophy that these two teams play for each year. RSL has won 15 out of the last 18 and leads the all-time series 14-6. Colorado won the Cup last year with a 2-1 win in Utah and a 3-2 win in Colorado. RSL took the second game of the series in Utah 5-3, but it wasn’t enough.
The Rocky Mountain Cup has had its fair share of drama, with RSL head coach Pablo Mastroeni playing for Colorado and coaching both teams. The drama has also been created by RSL legend Kyle Beckerman being traded across the Rockies. Last year’s second game was a thriller. Colorado scored twice early in the game. RSL responded and tied it at 2-2 right before halftime. Colorado would score again in the second half, but RSL would score three unanswered goals late to win 5-3.
Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning William Yarbrough’s own goal in 2021. The Colorado backline played the ball back to Yarbrough, and he accidentally deflected it into his own net. Own goals on both sides have proved costly to them, and ball control will be critical. Neither side can give up anything silly, and both must be disciplined, as red cards are more likely to be shown during a rivalry match.
This year’s edition moves to a two-game format, with each team hosting a game. This changes things up a bit and means that the pressure is on Real Salt Lake. The Claret and Cobalt need to win both matches to secure the Cup. Colorado can clinch the Cup with one win or two draws. The stakes are high, and RSL will be looking to restore the Cup to Claret and Cobalt.
Real Salt Lake and Colorado have a fierce and underrated rivalry that will prove to be entertaining. Both teams want the Cup, and RSL has the odds against them this year. RSL can win the Cup, but they must play smart and as a team. The Cup is there for the taking, and RSL has a chance to snatch it back.
Real Salt Lake will be in action tonight at 9:30 Eastern/7:30 Mountain on MLS Season Pass.
