RIO TINTO STATIUM — Real Salt Lake heads into this week’s training with determination.
The team is coming off its first loss to the season to LA Galaxy, 5-2. However, some challenges stand in their way. In the 23rd-minute of last weekend’s game, Burrito Martinez went down with a quad strain, the same injury leading scorer Joao Plata suffered only three days earlier.
Head Coach Jeff Cassar said there is no update on these two players so far, yet remains confident in the depth of his team, especially after newcomers Justen Glad and Sunny Obayan stepped up and made goals earlier in the season.
This Saturday RSL will host Houston, the third highest scoring team in the MLS.
Cassar said the Dynamo have dangerous players and are in the process of figuring out whether they’re an attacking or defending team as a whole. But, he also insists he isn’t worried about Houston — his main concern is RSL and making sure they have a good response from LA Galaxy.
Saturday will be the last time Real Salt Lake plays at Rio Tinto Stadium until June 18.
A win against Houston is important for the team.
“We have to end this month with a win — three points or bust,” said defender Tony Beltran. “A tie isn’t good enough, especially considering the next are five straight on the road, all of which are tough teams.”
Cassar said every home game is important no more than another, and they’ll keep the mentality set at the beginning of the season.
“Three points is what we’re aiming for, and we’re not satisfied if it’s not,” the coach said.
Game time for Houston is set at 7:30 p.m.
Thereafter RSL will travel to Colorado, Houston, Kansas City, Columbus and New York City.
