by Max Jeppesen
After a rainy morning, Real Salt Lake was ready to host Houston for a chance to win back to back for the second time this season. They did just that with a 2-1 triumph over the Dynamo.
RSL put the pressure on Houston early. Justin Meram scored at the sixth minute thanks to a brilliant run from Bobby Wood. He delivered a great ball for Meram to slot it home for his first touch.
However, in the second half, it was Houston that was hungry to start. Coincidentally, six minutes into the second half, Houston grabbed the equalizer. After that, all momentum shifted; Houston went on to have ten shots in the second half alone.
Freddy Juarez, head coach of Real Salt Lake, decided it was time to change some tactics and give some fresh legs a chance. So what started as a 4-4-2, became a 4-3-3. This was a significant offensive change. It was time to find another goal with substitutes Anderson Julio and Rubio Rubin.
In the 88th minute, Real Salt Lake won a free-kick. It was played wide and controlled well; Damir Kreilach and Rubio Rubin could cut through the Houston defense well. Rubin was able to pick out an unguarded Anderson Julio, who scored a brilliant goal.
Much like last Saturday’s performance, it was a win with some flaws. However, three points are three points when it comes to the table standings. Real Salt Lake was clinical with their chances and was able to execute their attacks. As a result, they moved up into the standings to fifth in the Western Conference.
Next up for RSL: a trip to Colorado for another Rocky Mountain Cup duel on Saturday, August 21, 2021.
Featured image courtesy Deseret News