RSL run out 3-2 extra time winners over Atlanta Silverbacks in US Open Cup third round

Despite a near-constant downpour, Real Salt Lake ran out the victors in a 3-2 US Open Cup third round match against NASL visitors Atlanta Silverbacks.

Kyle Beckerman scored in the third minute on a near-post header off a corner, and it took around 100 minutes for RSL to score again. The Silverbacks scored in the 87th minute when on-loan Kellen Gulley, in from Chicago Fire, took a shot that Saunders couldn't handle properly.

Devon Sandoval re-opened the home side's account in the 98th minute, and Khari Stephenson scored again two minutes late with a brilliant goal from distance. As the match wound down, Atlanta scored a late consolation goal through Pablo Cruz, who reportedly angered the crowd with some rude gestures.

The match saw a fair bit of rotation, but the lineup put out was a strong one. Throughout, Yordany Alvarez and Kyle Beckerman pivoted between the defensive midfield spot and the left side of the diamond, and Sebastian Velasquez and Javier Morales traded attacking moments.

Carlos Salcedo continued at the back and impressed alongside Kwame Watson-Siriboe, while Lovel Palmer and Chris Wingert largely controlled the flanks. The defense was only really tested when Silverbacks attacked in numbers.

Robbie Findley combined with rookie and goalscorer Devon Sandoval, though the veteran was later replaced by Joao Plata in the second half as the match wore on.

Real Salt Lake will take on Charleston Battery in the fourth round of the Cup on June 12.