Despite several dangerous chances, Real Salt Lake could not find the net and tied 0-0.
In some games, you are close but not quite there. That was the story of Real Salt Lake’s match in Costa Rica against Herediano. It was back-and-forth action and despite both sides having chances, neither one found the back of the net.
Herediano started things off quickly with a couple of quick shots. RSL slowly found their way into the game and got a good chance that went just wide. Herediano continued to pressure and RSL picked their moments. RSL forced a save out of goalkeeper Danny Carvajal and the first half would end with RSL having the only shot on goal.
The second half would start like the first with El Club dominating the attack. RSL would start to grow into the game with a few more dangerous chances, turned away by Carvajal and one stopped by a defender. RSL would also start to commit unnecessary fouls and sloppy giveaways. Both goalkeepers put on a clinic and it was shocking that the match ended scoreless.
Real Salt Lake was dealt a blow in the first half when Alexandros Katranis got hit in the back of the head with the ball while blocking a shot. He would exit shortly after with a head injury, much to his frustration. RSL tried to figure it out but it wasn’t the same.
Three takeaways from the draw at Herediano:
- The attack needs work: RSL had promising moments in the attack but not a lot of truly dangerous chances. The attack seemed unorganized at times and needs more chemistry. But there are a lot of new faces and so that is to be expected.
- The defense is leaky: The backline for RSL struggled. There were sloppy giveaways, unpatched holes, and confusion. Communication will be key when RSL starts the next match.
- The squad is starting to mesh: Despite the struggles, RSL looked good as a team. They had some brilliant moments and good passing, even though it never led to a goal.
Overall, it was a good start for RSL, given the new faces and unfamiliar environment. However, they did not get any away goals meaning that a win at America First Field is a must. RSL has a lot to build off of and has the potential to win big matches.
