Real Monarchs 2 vs. San Antonio FC 3
September 1, 2021; Toyota Field
Real Monarchs (4-12-4, 16 points); San Antonio FC (8-5-6, 30 points)
Man of the Match: In addition to scoring the breakthrough goal for the Real Monarchs, Ibrahim Bancé made his presence felt throughout the midfield, both the offensive and defensive sides. The Burkina Faso international blocked a shot, recorded a tackle and won four duels. Meanwhile, in possession, Bancé completed 48 passes with 81.3% accuracy.
Telling Stat: The starting IX for the Real Monarchs featured six teenagers, including RSL Academy players Blake Kelly and Seth Powder, as well as Bode Davis, Julio Benitez, Jaziel Orozco and Daniel Flores for an average age of 16.8 years old. Team captain Sam Brown was the oldest member in the visitors’ lineup at just 25 years old. The youthful Monarchs side combined for a total average of 19.5 years old.
What You Missed: Goalkeeper Jimmy Slayton made his first appearance of the season for the Real Monarchs as a second-half substitute. With the appearance, Slayton joins Jeff Dewsnup, Gavin Beavers, Blake Kelly, Andrew Putna and Zac MacMath as the sixth different player to feature between the pipes this season. Additionally, 16-year-old RSL Academy forward Seth Powder earned his first professional start, making his mark within the front three of Head Coach Jamison Olave’s formation.
So What: The result tonight was the Monarchs first loss to San Antonio FC this season, following draws in each of the first two matches against the rival Mountain Division side. Wrapping up a four-game road trip, the Real Monarchs will visit Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC at Weidner Field on Wednesday, September 8 at 7:00 p.m. MT for the second of four meetings between the sides this season.
