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So, how about that? Real Salt Lake’s first leg of preseason is over, and we ended it with a draw.
But really, it’s never about winning and losing in preseason; more appropriately, it’s about getting to see a number of players in different scenarios, and by being tested by a good San Jose Earthquakes side who kept the pressure high, RSL showed they’re moving along at a good clip.
Commenter reaction
Zac McIllece has nothing but praise for Jordan Allen, who won RSL’s penalty with some excellent awareness.
Jordan Allen looks ready to go. I think he’s a great compliment to Plata on the opposite wing as far as playing styles go. He really impressed me with his desire to fight through tackles and always win possession back. I’m excited to see how he fits in with the starting XI attacking group!
I couldn’t agree more. If Luis Silva is the player that surprised me the most, Jordan Allen is the one that impressed me the most. With the departure of Juan Manuel Martinez, there was always a chance that Allen could end up sitting on the bench behind yet another high-profile right winger. With that not the case, it sure looks like we’re in for the Jordan Allen show.
15-2-32 turned his attention to a player that might have flown under the radar: Jose Hernandez, who signed with the club this offseason.
Herenandez – This was the player I was most shocked with today. His comfort on the ball was a stark contrast to Besler in the first half. His vision was also really really good. I think he’ll struggle with the physical nature of the game, but when allowed time/space he made SJ pay.
Other things of note
- While we were all busy watching a preseason match, Nat Borchers announced his retirement. He was a legend at Real Salt Lake.
- Real Salt Lake traded an international spot to Minnesota United for $50k allocation, which, well, that’s sort of a classic MLS move. But we get numbers, so that’s great!
- The USMNT played against Jamaica. Here are three things we learned from that match.