Real Salt Lake Meeting Expectations at the Right Time

Don't look now, Major League Soccer, but one of the teams that was supposed to dominate the league before the season began is now putting together a nice little win streak that could move them into a better position in the MLS playoffs.

After a huge road win on Saturday in Seattle against the Sounders, Real Salt Lake has now put together a three-game win streak. The nine points gained over the last three weeks have placed them just one point behind FC Dallas for the third playoff spot in the Western Conference.

The latest win came against the hottest team in the league who was previously unbeaten in all competition during the entire month of August. Second only to the MLS Cup Championship they won in 2009, it was the biggest win ever for Real Salt Lake in that stadium.

In fairness to Seattle, the match on Saturday was an unusual one that featured two players being sent off, a missed penalty kick, and a very rare Kasey Keller own goal on a shot by RSL's Fabian Espindola.

With a combination of losing in the CONCACAF Final, unexpected injuries and international team call-ups, Real Salt Lake has struggled to put together much consistency this season, but they seem to be peaking at the right time.

The return of several players from injury, and the inspired play of captain Kyle Beckerman have aided the team and helped them to begin meeting preseason expectations.

Before the end of the season, the club may get another emotional lift with the return of Javier Morales, who was expected to be out for the season.

Morales has been training with the team and is able to run, but is not quite ready to play at game-speed as he recovers from a broken ankle suffered on a cheap shot from Chivas USA player Marcos Mondaini early in the season.

With only eight league matches left, the road does not get easier for the club. They play five of those on the road, including games against the Red Bulls, Galaxy and main rival Colorado. It may help that they play both expansion teams, though they lost to the Timbers earlier in the season.  

Real Salt Lake must finish strong to be able to earn a good position in the upcoming MLS playoffs. If they are able to earn at least the third position, they will avoid having to play a first round game.

If they continue to perform the way they have over the last three weeks, the team should go far in the playoffs and will challenge for another MLS Cup.