Real Salt Lake (RSL) is determined to overcome its challenges in away matches as they prepare to face the Portland Timbers. Following a recent defeat, the team is focused on proving their ability to clinch victories on the road, a facet of their performance that has been less consistent compared to their strong home record. This upcoming game is a significant test for RSL, providing an opportunity to alter their narrative regarding road performances.
RSL's current standing is 8-5-2, accumulating 26 points, yet their away record stands at a mere 1-4-2. Their single road triumph this season was a 3-2 victory against Atlanta United back on March 7. Coach Pablo Mastroeni openly acknowledges the inherent advantage of playing at home in this league, emphasizing the difficulty of securing wins on foreign turf. He views the upcoming series of away games, including the clash with the Timbers, as a crucial period that will intensely challenge and strengthen the team's resolve and capabilities.
The team is embarking on a challenging three-game road trip, with the match against Portland being the second stop, followed by a final game in St. Louis. Midfielder Zavier Gozo, aged 19, whose six goals tie him with Sergi Solans for the team lead, highlighted the importance of this trip. He sees it as an excellent chance for RSL to reverse their struggles in away games and demonstrate their capacity for winning outside their home stadium.
In their last encounter with Portland on May 2 in Sandy, Utah, Gozo was among the scorers. He and Diego Luna netted goals in the first half, while Juan Manuel Sanabria provided two assists. Goalkeeper Rafael Cabral maintained a clean sheet with two saves. RSL dominated that game, outshooting Portland 25-11, with a significant 15-2 advantage in shots on target. Despite the barrage, Timbers' goalie James Pantemis set a franchise record with 13 saves.
The Portland Timbers, with a record of 5-8-3 and 18 points, recently played to a 2-2 draw against visiting FC Dallas. Felipe Mora secured the equalizer in stoppage time during the second half, and Kevin Kelsy also contributed a goal, marking his eighth of the season and a team high. Interim coach Jack Cassidy, who holds a 1-0-1 record, including a dominant 5-1 win over Seattle, indicated that the team is concentrating on the immediate game given the packed schedule, as they await new coach Marti Cifuentes' visa approval.
The upcoming match against the Timbers is more than just another game for Real Salt Lake; it represents a pivotal moment to refine their performance on the road and build momentum for the remainder of the season. The team's collective effort to improve their away game statistics will be a key determinant of their overall success and standing in the league. This series of away fixtures will provide valuable insights into their resilience and adaptability under pressure.
