The win can’t make up for last year’s loss, but for Real Salt Lake, exacting a measure of revenge on D.C. United for was as easy as one ...
... two ...
... three:
That outburst that left RSL, upset in by D.C. in last year’s U.S. Open Cup final, up three after 24 minutes. Come full-time, United had two shots on target, the 3-0 result the team’s worst since opening day against the Crew.
Though many faces have changed for D.C. since its win last fall in Sandy, Utah, tonight’s performance may still have some emotional value for RSL. At least, the team played as if it had something to prove. With a double from Chris Schuler and two assists from Javier Morales, the team can move on from last year’s disappointment, secure in the knowledge they outclassed one of the two best in the Eastern Conference.
Along the way, they helped one of MLS’s best secure his place in the league’s record books. Nick Rimando, who tied Kevin Hartman’s all-time shutouts record last week at Colorado, eased to a record 113th clean sheet at Rio Tinto, his two saves all that were needed for the 35-year-old to make his own claim to greatness.
Though he’s never won a Goalkeeper of the Year honor, Rimando’s longevity and consistency have earned him a place in the league’s “best ever goalkeeper” discussion. If reaction to his last two shutouts is any indication, Rimando may now be at the head of that list.
With the RSL veteran re-writing history, more people have been convinced of the jewel they have in the Rocky Mountains. While Major League Soccer has been bless with a number of standout keepers, the years Rimando has left will only strengthen his case to being the best league’s put on the field.