Recap: RSL runs rampant over Chivas in 4-0 victory

A comprehensive performance from all corners saw Real Salt Lake run out winners 4-0 against expansion compatriots Chivas USA, with RSL forward Alvaro Saborio grabbing his second hat trick of 2012.

Fabian Espindola, who assisted on one of Saborio's three, and sent in the cross for another, ran the show. It was the sort of performance Espindola can look back on - a clear indication of his value to the club, even after a dry spell in front of goal saw him shorn of confidence. Despite not scoring himself, Espindola was important in play throughout.

Despite the positives, of which there were many for the Claret and Cobalt, they were found lacking midway through the first half, with Chivas subjecting keeper Nick Rimando to a few hard-to-handle shots; it is no surprise that the veteran handled all that came his way without major issue.

Chris Wingert, whom Kenny Mansally replaced at the half for either yellow card precaution or injury, did well to handle major concerns on the right side of the Chivas attack, with his corollary on his right, Tony Beltran, doing well to stop attacks coming from his side.

A renewed focus for RSL in the second half saw Saborio complete his hat trick in the 63rd minute with a fine strike. Dan Kennedy superbly blocked a shot from Will Johnson, but with the ball rolling out to Sabo, wasn't able to stop a sumptuous chip.

Despite the strong flank efforts from Real Salt Lake, Chivas managed a shocking 30 unsuccessful crosses on the night (30/38 overall), with 14 of those coming in the 25-minute period of sustained attack in the first half.

The scoring finished for the night when Paulo Jr. picked up a pass from Fabian Espindola, darted to the right side of the box, and beat Kennedy at his near post. It was the young striker's first MLS goal since converting a penalty on April 4.

Standout players included Fabian Espindola, whose attacking play showed the craft and graft in equal parts that makes him dangerous, Alvaro Saborio, whose first two goals came through his fine positioning and third goal came through a moment of brilliance, and Kyle Beckerman, who played perfectly the role of the "invisible wall," staying quiet and subtle in his breakup play.