RSL emerges victorious against LA Galaxy, proceeds to Western Conference Final against Portland

After 120 minutes of fierce, nail-biting action, Real Salt Lake emerged from the throes of a difficult semifinal matchup against LA Galaxy victorious; winning 2-0 in a match that featured rare goals from Chris Schuler and Sebastian Velasquez - their second and first career goals, respectively, and certainly the biggest of their nascent careers.

Coming into the home leg down a goal made the tie a difficult one, but with Robbie Keane and Landon Donovan both failing to make positive marks once again, and the entire team playing astounding defense. Chris Schuler in particular deserves plaudits for rising to clear the ball in the middle of a packed 18-yard box time after time after time, and his goal capped a fantastic night.

The opening goal every bit as crucial, set RSL up for the deadlock with the Galaxy that led to 30 minutes of extra time. Sebastian Velasquez, making a run into the box, was found free and open for a Chris Wingert cross, and he rose uncharacteristically to head the ball bast Jamie Penedo.

It was a moment where the glue holding us down seemed to come unstuck. After so many failures at home, this was a resounding success.

Real Salt Lake will face Portland in the Western Conference final; the first match will be Sunday, with the return leg two weeks later, owing to an international break.