RSL's run: A fleeting memory outside Utah
Wednesday’s CONCACAF Champions League finale at Rio Tinto Stadium was a legitimate event. The stadium was full, the crowd excited to see whether Real Salt Lake could make it to the FIFA Club World Cup.
Today it’s on its way to becoming a hazy memory.
That’s not to say people in Utah won’t remember this for a long time. But globally? Not so much. I was talking to a Major League Soccer official before the game and he openly admitted that for the league to truly benefit from the game, RSL had to advance.
I compare RSL losing to Monterrey with the Jazz losing in the Western Conference finals, or maybe BYU or Utah going to the Sweet 16 or the Elite Eight. It’s a fine year, and their fans will remember it, but elsewhere it doesn’t make a whole lot of impact.
Speaking of which, it’s amazing the difference a single goal makes. If RSL scores, the world is watching. By not scoring, RSL is sort of where it left off eight months ago.
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In a side note, from what I saw in coach Jason Kreis’ post-game press conference, he was as good as he’s been. He wasn’t happy, but he was honest in his disappointment and his assessment. He had some nice quotes.
But he wasn’t snippy or defensive, just honest. Same with the players.
All in all, I’d say RSL acted professionally and graciously, a tribute to the league.