The Colorado Rapids secured a 3-2 victory over Real Salt Lake in Commerce City, Colorado, thanks to Cole Bassett’s late penalty-shot goal in the 88th minute. This win also helped the Rapids clinch the 2024 Rocky Mountain Cup. The Rapids, with a record of 12-9-5 and 41 points, have been performing well, with points in four of their last five matches (3-1-1).
The game saw Andres Gomez of Salt Lake scoring twice, bringing his season total to 13 goals. However, despite controlling possession in the first half, Real Salt Lake found themselves trailing 2-1 at halftime. Jonathan Lewis and Sam Vines scored for Colorado in quick succession, erasing the deficit and taking the lead.
The match was not without its share of drama, as heavy rain and lightning caused a nearly two-hour delay following the first half. Once the game resumed, Gomez quickly equalized for Salt Lake in the 49th minute, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
The pivotal moment came in the 85th minute when the Rapids were awarded a penalty after a handball by Salt Lake defender Justin Glad. Cole Bassett stepped up and calmly converted the penalty kick, beating keeper Gavin Beavers for his third goal against RSL this season.
Real Salt Lake, with a record of 12-4-8 and 44 points, has been struggling in their past few games, going 0-2-1. The absence of their leading scorer, Cristian Arango, due to a suspension for violating the league’s anti-harassment policy, has been felt by the team.
Looking ahead, Salt Lake will return to MLS action on Aug. 24 against San Jose, while Colorado will travel to FC Dallas on Aug. 31. The rivalry between these two teams promises more exciting matchups in the future as they continue to battle it out on the pitch.