RSL signs Real Monarchs goalkeeper Andrew Putna

In one of the more distressing twists of Real Salt Lake’s season, the team found themselves with just one fit and available goalkeeper after injuries to backups Alex Horwath and Connor Sparrow.

To account for those longer-term injuries, RSL announced the signing of another of the Real Monarchs squad, Andrew Putna.

Putna, 23, has been playing infrequently for the Monarchs, particularly after Connor Sparrow moved to the first team’s backup role following a long-term injury for Horwath. He’s been appearing on RSL’s bench following a knee injury to Sparrow, with the club issuing a short-term emergency call-up.

In a club-issued press release, RSL general manager Craig Waibel described the signing as another triumph for the club’s developmental approach.

“This is a great credit to Andrew and the work he has put in over the last two years,” Waibel said. “It’s another feather in the cap for our staff with the Monarchs, who continue to develop players for the first team.”

Putna will occupy a senior roster spot, with David Horst moving to the season-ending injury list after a surgery.