RSL’s US Open Cup journey begins on the road

The 104th Lamar Hunt US Open Cup is well under way, and we just learned where Real Salt Lake’s journey will begin after the fourth round draw was held today.

One thing we know for sure: RSL’s first USOC game will be on the road, due to the outcome of a coin toss which determines who will play host. They’ll travel either to Sacramento, CA, or Reno, NV, pending the winner of the third-round match between USL sides Sacramento Republic FC and Reno 1868 FC, which takes place on May 31st.

Sacramento, who won the USL championship in 2014, was just in town last weekend as they were defeated 2-0 by the Real Monarchs. They currently sit in 10th place in the USL western conference, while Reno 1868 trails them in 13th place.

RSL has never faced off against an MLS opponent in their opening USOC game. Other teams haven’t had the same fortune, as the fourth-round games this year are highlighted by some marquee MLS match-ups including Seattle vs. Portland, Sporting Kansas City vs. Minnesota, and the New York Red Bulls vs. New York City FC.

While they’ve never won the Open Cup trophy, RSL reached the final in 2013 as they lost at home to D.C. United, while reaching the semi-final round in 2015 where they ultimately lost to Sporting Kansas City. Last year, they were eliminated in the round of 16 as they were defeated by Seattle in a penalty shootout.

The fourth round games will take place on Tuesday, June 13th and Wednesday, June 14th.