Real Salt Lake can't win a game in MLS, but it blanked American keeper Tim Howard and EPL giant Everton, 2-0, in that other exhibition game on Saturday. RSL's victory was arguably the standout result of the weekend, especially for a last-place team that's won just one game in 15 in league play.
As the Deseret Morning News points out, it was a particularly fine debut for newly acquired midfielder Kyle Beckerman, whose passing and control brought better possession to RSL's midfield. Beckerman technically started in right midfield, but would slide into the middle in possession. Kreis said his strategy is to squeeze his outside midfielders, creating a three-man center midfield. "He did exactly what I expected," Coach Jason Kreis said of Beckerman's performance, highlighting his defensive work rate. "He was working his butt off, and that's why I brought him here."
Kreis described the overall team performance as "excellent," saying he was particularly surprised with how his team "jelled that quickly" with so many new players. Conspicuous by his absence was young Freddy Adu. The Salt Lake Tribune's sources confirmed that Benfica of Portugal is the 18-year-old's most likely destination, as it would be difficult for Adu to obtain a British work permit for either Celtic or Tottenham. However, the Tribune says MLS wants a hefty $7.5 million transfer fee.
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