Real Monarchs SLC at Rio Grande Valley FC
September 8, 2018; H-E-B Park, Edinberg, Texas
7:30 p.m. MT; RealMonarchs.com
Real Monarchs SLC (17-8-2, 53 points); Rio Grande Valley FC (4-11-12, 24 points)
Player to Watch – Midfielder Todd Wharton continues to play a fundamental role for the Toros this season. From the middle of the park, Wharton has created a team-leading 55 chances for the Toros offense, as well as picking up three goals and two assists. Over the season, Wharton has shown he has vision, having made over 1000 passes and successfully completing 87.4% of them, making him one of the more dangerous players for RGV’s opposition.
History – In early June, Real Monarchs and RGVFC met for the fifth time, a game that saw the Monarchs earn all three points in a decisive 2-0 victory at Zions Bank Stadium. The win extended the Monarchs lead in the all-time series to 3-1-1. With the sixth match just around the corner, the Monarchs will aim to further extend the lead while Rio Grande takes on the challenge of toppling the Monarchs for the first time since 2016.
Last Five – Rio Grande Valley FC have come away with four points of the possible 15 in the last five games, with a record of 1-3-1. The last victory for RGV came in late August where RGV triumphed over Orange County SC, however since the win the Texas club has fallen twice, leaving it on a losing streak it will be looking to break on Saturday. Sitting in the 15th spot in the Western Conference table with 24 points, the Toros will look to upset the balance of power atop the table once again against West leaders Real Monarchs on Saturday.
