Real Salt Lake returned to the playoffs in 2016, but had an up-and-down season that ended in a disappointing defeat in the playoff knockout round. RSL’s attack, led by Yura Movsisyan and Joao Plata, was in excellent form early in the season but struggled later on. Aaron Maund, Justen Glad, and Demarr Phillips grew into solid starters in the back, improving as the season wore on. Ultimately, however, the season will be remembered for the team’s downward spiral throughout the autumn months, with Real plummeting in the Western Conference standings and squeaking into the playoffs in the sixth and final spot.
Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake) captures a corner kicked by Diego Valeri (Portland Timbers)
Portland Timbers Forward Fanendo Adi turns pass Real Salt Lake defender Justin Glad in the lead to Adi’s goal,
Timbers midfielder Diego Valeri challenged by Real Salt Lake captain and US international, Kyle Beckerman.
