The 2017 Real Salt Lake schedule has at long last been revealed and there are Claret-and-Cobalt fans across the valley circling dates on the calendar and marking down the can’t-miss dates.
Here are the top four home games on the slate for RSL in 2017.
March 4 vs. Toronto FC
The season opener comes at home for the first time since moving into Rio Tinto Stadium in 2008. And it comes against the Eastern Conference champions, Toronto FC. The Reds will bring with them stars Sebastian Giovinco, Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore, but also a supporting cast that helped them reach MLS Cup for the first time in club history.
April 22 vs. Atlanta United FC
One of the two newest expansion clubs pays an early visit to Rio Tinto Stadium in April. Carlos Bocanegra has drawn praise for his structure in putting the team together and with Tata Martino roaming the sidelines, there is hope for success right out of the gate for Atlanta, a rarity among MLS expansion clubs.
May 6 vs. FC Dallas
Javier Morales has played for just one Major League Soccer team in 10 years. That changes in 2017 with his signing at FC Dallas this off-season and the fans will have the first opportunity to see him play as a visitor in May. The Supporters’ Shield winners went winless in two visits to Rio Tinto Stadium last year and RSL looks to keep it that way in 2017.
October 22 vs. Sporting Kansas City
These rivals will meet three times in 2017 – including a home tilt for RSL on Pioneer Day – but the regular season finale will likely be an important one as both teams look poised to be in contention for the playoffs yet again. While there will be fireworks off the field in the July match, the Decision Day contest may be just as explosive.
