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RSL ’buzzing’ to play MLS champion Seattle Sounders amid organization controversy

(Trent Nelson | The Salt Lake Tribune) San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Magnus Eriksson (7) and Real Salt Lake midfielder Kyle Beckerman (5) as Real Salt Lake hosts the San Jose Earthquakes, MLS soccer at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy on Wednesday Sept. 11, 2019.

Real Salt Lake is coming off a big comeback draw against the Portland Timbers.

Not only was it big because they came back from two goals down in the waning minutes of the game. But it was also big because the RSL organization has been embroiled in controversy in the last several days.

Dell Loy Hansen decided to sell the franchise, and Chief Business Officer Andy Carroll is taking a leave of absence after allegations of workplace misconduct surfaced. So the club has a lot going on off the field.

RSL VS. SEATTLE SOUNDERS

At Rio Tinto Stadium


When • Wednesday, 7:30 p.m.

TV • KMYU

But on the field, RSL is preparing for a home against the defending champion Seattle Sounders, who knocked RSL out of the Western Conference semifinals in 2019. Rio Tinto Stadium will again welcome about 5,000 fans, who are asked to adhere to to COVID-19 safety protocols.

Captain Kyle Beckerman said the team was able to put the drama behind it heading into the Portland game, and are in a good headspace to face the Sounders.

“Guys are buzzing right now,” “Beckerman said Monday, before the news about Carroll. “The vibes in the locker room are great and I think now we’re focused already on Seattle about let’s see if we can get another good result and keep this thing moving.”

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