Atlanta United's speed prevailed over Real Sal Lake's resurgence Saturday night, as defensive pressure was enough to earn them a 3-1 victory on the road. The loss was RSL's first under new head coach Mike Petke, while Atlanta picked up their first win since back-to-back multi-goal victories in March.
United's first two goals came off defensive giveaways by RSL, applying pressure on the ball early in each half to jump out to a 2-0 lead that Atlanta had to defend for almost the entire second half. Miguel Almiron stood out in the game for his quickness, and his steal in the attacking third set up United's second goal, which turned out to be the match winner.
Real Salt Lake launched a comeback in the last half hour, but injuries to Nick Rimando and Chris Wingert may be the more lasting effects of this game for RSL.
- ATL: United's "aggressive" play key in impressive win
- RSL: Rodriguez: Beginning of the end for Rimando?
Goals
- 9' - ATL - Hector VillalbaWatch
- 46' - ATL - Yamil AsadWatch
- 69' - RSL - Albert RusnakWatch
- 90'+6' - ATL - Brandon VazquezWatch
Three Things
MULHOLLAND OVERWHELMED:
This first-half note from MLS Analyst Matt Doyle was worth a follow up:
Unfortunately for RSL the trend continued, as
Luke Mulholland
continued to miss on 14 passes from the central midfield position. This resulted in a 60-percent pass completion rate on the night, although he did end up getting the assist on RSL's lone goal.
They Said It
