MacMath Shores up Backline in First Match at America First Field
September 11, 2022 – MLS NEXT Pro (MLS NEXT Pro) – Real Monarchs News Release
Man of the Match: Goalkeeper Zac MacMath proved to be once again a stalwart in between the pipes, earning his 51st clean sheet in his career to aid in the 0-0 draw. MacMath made three massive saves to preserve the shutout and keep RSL’s hopes alive in the Western Conference Playoff race. The goalkeeper now sits tied for fourth in MLS with 10 clean sheets this season, just three behind Philadelphia Union’s Andre Blake. Additionally, MacMath’s 10 shutouts are the second most in his career, just two behind his 2013 record when he earned 12 clean sheets as a member of the Philadelphia Union.
Telling Stat: With tonight’s draw, Real Salt Lake extended its home-unbeaten streak against Eastern Conference opponents to 17 matches. The Club have posted a 10-0-7 record during this streak with its last home loss to an Eastern Conference foe coming on June 30, 2017 in a 1-0 defeat to Orlando City SC. RSL has been dominant against the East since the opening of the stadium in 2008, losing only seven of 79 home matches across all competitions. The Club will look to once again extend its streak next Saturday when it hosts FC Cincinnati. Additionally, the Claret-and-Cobalt have yet to drop consecutive matches all season, going 4-0-5 following a loss during the 2022 campaign.
What You Missed: In the inaugural match at America First Field, Real Salt Lake earned a point at home, playing to a 0-0 draw with D.C. United. Forward Danny Musovski made his first appearance for the Claret-and-Cobalt, while new signing Braian Ojeda made his home debut. Goalkeeper Zac MacMath earned his 10th clean sheet of the season and former RSL Homegrown David Ochoa returned to Utah for the first time since joining D.C. United on July 29.
What’s Next: Real Salt Lake will travel to the Lone Star State to take on Western Conference Foes Austin FC for a midweek matchup on Wednesday, September 14 at 7:15 p.m. MT before returning to America First Field on Saturday, September 17 at 7:30 p.m. MT to host FC Cincinnati as part of Hispanic Heritage Night. Limited tickets are available at www.rsl.com/tickets.
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