RSL emerge victorious over Portland with 1-0 scoreline kept in check by Rimando

It was a nervous, difficult match that at times felt as harried as any we've seen in this still short season, but Real Salt Lake ran out 1-0 winners against Portland Timbers.

It required heroics from Nick Rimando time and time again, including some saves that would make you think he hadn't been injured just a few days prior.

Ned Grabavoy scored the lone goal on the night, making a brilliant run down the left side of Donovan Ricketts box and finishing at the far post.

Portland threatened throughout, but their chances were limited to counterattacks and set pieces. Gone were opportunities through the middle, as they looked to remain defensively resolute except in the few moments they had distinctive chances.

But the goal changed that theme radically, and the final 10 minutes came down to an onslaught of corners and free kicks that required attention we missed just one week ago.