BYU Hosts Real Salt Lake Friday
Jarom Jordan
801-471-4469
Brent Jensen
PROVO, Utah (Sept. 30, 2009) – It’s “futbol before football” Friday, October 2 as the BYU men’s soccer team hosts Real Salt Lake of Major League Soccer at 5 p.m. in Provo. The kickoff time gives fans a chance to see both the soccer and football game against Utah State later in the evening.
“We’ve had some good games (against RSL),” said Coach, Chris Watkins. “They’re obviously better than we are but we’ve been somewhat competitive. The guys get excited to prove themselves against some of the best players. I want us to look smart, composed, and not too rushed. I don’t want to get into a panic mode.”
The Cougars have played RSL each year since 2005. Last year’s meeting christened the newly renovated Stadium at South Field, drawing 3,110 fans in a 3-0 RSL victory.
“Our team is a little young right now” said senior midfielder, Brent Jensen. “We’ll notice (an awe factor) in the beginning of the game. I think it’s a great growing experience. We have a really great opportunity to play Real Salt Lake.”
BYU is in the middle of its exhibition season, having defeated Utah State 2-0 on Friday, September 25. The Cougars out shot the Aggies 25-6. Nils Lofgren got the Cougars on the scoreboard with a blast in the box in the 81st minute. Brit Osborne sealed the victory with a penalty kick in the 88th minute.
Real Salt Lake has three regular season games remaining and sits in sixth place in the Western Conference with 34 points. Forward Robbie Findley leads the team in scoring with 10 goals this season. The team features three representatives from this year’s all-star game in Javier Morales, Will Johnson, and Kyle Beckerman. Beckerman, Findley, and Clint Mathis have caps with the United States national team.
“We would like to thank coach Chris Watkins and the BYU Soccer family for inviting us back to South Stadium for what should be an exciting night in Provo,” said RSL General Manager Garth Lagerwey. “With a long break in our schedule, the chance to play this match against quality opposition is appreciated, and we’re thrilled to be able to do so in front of our fans in Utah County.”
Tickets For the Game
Fans can buy a reserved seat for $10. Adults and children cost $6 while students cost $5 with a valid student ID. Tickets can be purchased at www.byutickets.com or at the stadium.
RSL Pre-Game Release: Click Here
Audio:
Chris Watkins - Head Coach
Brent Jensen - Midfielder (Sr.)
