Real Salt Lake 1 vs. Los Angeles FC 2
July 17, 2021; Banc of California Stadium
Real Salt Lake (4-4-4, 16 points); LAFC (6-4-3, 21 points)
Man of the Match: Goalkeeper David Ochoa matched a career-high eight saves in addition to recording his first-ever Major League Soccer penalty save, stopping 2019 MLS Golden Boot and Most Valuable Player Carlos Vela’s shot from the spot.
Telling Stat: Los Angeles FC outshot Real Salt Lake by 26, taking 29 total shots in comparison to RSL’s three. LAFC were also able to put nine shots on goal, while RSL only managed to record two shots on frame. The defense made eight blocks and 25 clearances in an effort to keep the game close.
What You Missed: Aaron Herrera netted his first-ever professional goal in the 18th minute, assisted by Everton Luiz and Damir Kreilach. With the goal, Herrera has contributed to the scoresheet in six of his 10 appearances this season. Luiz’ assist was his for RSL since 2019 and the third of his career, while Kreilach’s was his fourth of the year good for the eighth-most in the league.
What’s Next: Real Salt Lake will now have two games at home in Rio Tinto Stadium against LA Galaxy and Colorado Rapids, both of whom are higher up on the table, but suffered a loss and a draw tonight, respectively. So far this season RSL is 2-2-3 when playing at home, most recently defeating Vancouver Whitecaps FC 4-0.
