What we’re watching in Real Salt Lake vs. Colorado Rapids

It’s been some time since the Rocky Mountain Cup has been in Colorado, but that’s where it is now and tonight is a chance for Real Salt Lake to reclaim it from the Rapids. RSL fell 5-0 to Colorado at Rio Tinto Stadium last September, in a shocking result that delivered the Rapids the cup. Can Real reclaim the cup for 2021?

Monarchs minutes

Last weekend the Real Monarchs started seven RSL players as they took on the Switchbacks, most notably forward Bobby Wood. Wood went for 60 minutes before being subbed off and it was a good chance for him to get some game minutes. It’s unlikely Wood starts tonight, but he could be a substitute. Andrew Brody also played and he went the full 90. Brody did see some minute late in RSL’s win over the Galaxy before the international break, but this could put him back in contention to start.

Rubio or Anderson

Damir Kreilock has locked down his starting spot, but with two up top that second forward slot falls either to Rubio Rubin or Anderson Julio, particularly with Bobby Wood not fully fit yet. Against the Galaxy, starting Rubio and having Anderson come on brought out some of good things in each player, but against Austin, having Julio start and Rubin sub on for him simply did not work. If Mastroeni wants to give Wood some time, who gets that starting spot?

Identity

This game comes at an interesting time for Real Salt Lake. They’re without an owner and without a (permanent) head coach. Throughout the team’s history, the Rocky Mountain rivalry has been the biggest rivalry for the team, with only Sporting KC in contention. The team has also shifted their style of play. A win here might be asking too much; Colorado has had a strong season after all, but retaking the RMC would mean a lot.

Injury report

Out: Zack Farnsworth, Marcelo Silva

Predicted lineup