LEHI, Utah - Although head coach Jason Kreis never reveals his lineup ahead of a match, it’s increasingly likely that Rauwshan McKenzie is poised to make perhaps the biggest start of his career on Tuesday night.
That’s when the visiting Columbus Crew come calling to Rio Tinto Stadium for the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinal series. And with fellow defenders Nat Borchers and Tony Beltran suspended for the crucial match, it could be McKenzie’s time to shine on the RSL backline.
“Whoever steps into that role,” goalkeeper Nick Rimando said, “has to definitely step up and be vocal.”
McKenzie seems to be the likely choice to make the jump to the starting lineup along with veteran Robbie Russell after the youngster earned reps with the first team in training this week. Second-year man Chris Schuler is the other option, but he’s only recently returned to full training after suffering a broken bone in his foot last season.
[inline_node:329502]So the eyes will more than likely fall on McKenzie, 24, who appeared in four regular season matches for RSL last season after making five appearances in 2009 with Kansas City. His most recent start came in RSL’s dramatic 1-1 draw against Colorado on Sept. 25, a match that saw Borchers score the late equalizer in front of a euphoric Rio Tinto crowd.
“It’s definitely exciting,” said McKenzie. “I’m looking forward to it.”
McKenzie, acquired prior to the 2010 season after being waived by Kansas City, felt that his preparation for this match began last season when he saw time in several key matches, including two CCL tilts against Cruz Azul and the Colorado match.
“I’ve seen moments in the past when they have [shown they can step into that role],” Russell said. “Deep down I believe in it, I think they just need to be on their ‘A’ game.”
“It’s the second game of the season, it’s a chance to show the coaches,” Russell said. “It’s a chance to prove yourself - especially on such a big stage, and hopefully they’re looking forward to it, and seize the opportunity.”
However, Russell feels like the secret to the defensive success of this team is more about the team as a whole, than it is about any one individual.
“I really feel that the success we’ve had has been because of how our unit works together,” he said. “Jamison and Nat back there are great, but it’s a little bit more in the chemistry we have together that helps a lot.”
“It’s a big opportunity for us,” he added. “Moving onto the semifinals would move us a step closer to and possibly winning the region. I know the club is really focused on it, and I know the players really want it. Right now it’s just all about executing.”
Check out the Feb. 24 edition of the ExtraTime Radio podcast, featuring D.C. United's Charlie Davies, Real Salt Lake's Nick Rimando and league executive Nelson Rodrigueztalking about the new playoff structure.
