Real Salt Lake was well-represented at the 2016 Chipotle MLS Homegrown Game in San Jose’s Avaya Stadium. With four players totaling 212 minutes in the 2-0 exhibition loss to the Mexico U-20 National Team, RSL’s young Academy alums were key contributors for Landon Donovan, who coached the Homegrown side for the second straight season.
Jordan Allen started wide in the 4-2-3-1 formation deployed by the Homegrown team while Phanuel Kavita and Justen Glad both started at center back. Kavita would play the full 90 minutes while Glad subbed out at halftime and Allen was replaced in the 32nd minute as a precaution as he showed some discomfort around the 27th minute. Danilo Acosta subbed on at halftime and played in the midfield as the Homegrowns fought to work their way back into the game, but couldn’t overcome a 2-0 first half deficit gained on a penalty and a bending free kick that eluded goalkeeper Jesse Gonzalez, both scored by Luis Marquez.
In addition to the four players on the MLS side, RSL also had representation in the Mexico U-20s. Former Academy goalkeeper Christian Herrera, who is signed with Real Monarchs but out on loan to Pachuca in Mexico, was on the bench, but did not make an appearance on Wednesday night.
The four players will return to Salt Lake today to ready for the weekend’s match against the Philadelphia Union, while Kyle Beckerman remains in San Jose for the MLS All-Star Game on Thursday at 5:30 pm MT (ESPN).
Nice hair cut, Justen.
Why so serious, Danny?
What up, Christian?
Three in the starting XI.
Man marking.
Here's the thing, coach.
Lefty.
Ninja kicks.