RSL captain Kyle Beckerman played a starring role in Wednesday's MLS All-Star game, threading a gorgeous through ball to set up Eddie Johnson for his 91st minute game-winner in the All-Stars' 3-2 victory over UEFA Champions League title-holders Chelsea FC at PPL Park.
Beckerman played the final 34 minutes on Wednesday night, coming into the match in the 57th minute for Seattle midfielder Osvaldo Alonso. Captain Kyle was incredibly effective and efficient from his position directly in front of the back four, completing an astounding 21 of 21 passes, winning one tackle and making two interceptions against the Blues.
"I got some good minutes in the second half, and it was a great night to be part of this game," Beckerman told the Salt Lake Tribune after the game. "This is an experience I'll cherish and I hope there are many more."
Beckerman returns to Salt Lake on Thursday. It's unlikely that he'll play on Friday against Vancouver, with head coach Jason Kreis hinting after practice on Wednesday that he'd hold Beckerman out against the Whitecaps in order to save him for Tuesday's CCL opener at Costa Rican club C.S. Herediano if the midfielder played significant minutes in the All-Star Game.
One player who definitely won't play on Friday is Vancouver center back Jay DeMerit. The veteran defender played all 90 minutes on Wednesday, meaning it's unlikely he'll even be on the gameday roster when RSL takes on the 'Caps at Rio Tinto Stadium at 7 p.m. MT on Friday night.
