Real Monarchs SLC 3 vs Reno 1868 FC 1
April 6, 2019; Herriman, Utah; Zions Bank Stadium
Real Monarchs SLC (2-1-2, 8 points); Reno 1868 FC (1-1-3, 6 points)
Man of the Match: Forward Douglas Martinez displayed his work ethic throughout the afternoon, contributing in key moments for two of the three Monarchs goals. Martinez expertly paired with the Monarchs attacking front to help in setting up Joao Plata with his rocket of a goal, as well as finding Jack Blake in space at the middle of the penalty area to drive home the third on the night. Martinez consistently puts in a strong effort and it paid off for the Monarchs on Saturday.
Telling Stat: 14. Reno 1868 FC attempted 14 shots while looking for a goal. The Monarchs stark defense kept the 1868 FC offensive power at bay, allowing only four on goal and seven blocked shots. The display put forth from the Monarchs backline allowed only the single Reno goal to help in securing in the win at Zions Bank Stadium.
What You Missed: Real Monarchs SLC picked up its second win of the season against Reno 1868 FC with three goals. Maikel Chang furthered his lead as the team’s leading goal scorer, picking up his third of the season within six minutes of the opening whistle. RSL men Joao Plata and Justen Glad each made appearances in the Starting XI, playing for 59 minutes. The Monarchs appearance for Glad marks his first minutes in the 2019 season since his toe injury in preseason. FW Kyle Coffee also made his professional debut subbing in for Joao Plata.
So What: With its second win of the season, Real Monarchs retakes the 6th spot in the Western Conference, moving to a record of 2-1-2 with eight points. With the professional debut of Kyle Coffee, three players have now made their professional debuts for the Monarchs this season, alongside Steve Jasso and Jordan Pena. The Monarchs will now look to continue to improve its standing as it heads to Isotope Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico for the first time in an attempt to claim another three points. The match-up will be the first in the Four Corners Cup of the season for the Monarchs. The first clash between Real Monarchs and New Mexico United is set for Saturday, April 13 with a kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. MT from Isotope Park and can be watched live on ESPN+.
