7 p.m., DISH Ch. 457, DirecTV Ch. 680, ALT (tape delay at 10 p.m.), 1510 AM, 93.7 FM
Spotlight on Fabian Espindola: He emerged as one of the league’s most dangerous forwards last season, scoring 10 goals and giving RSL a potent 1-2 punch with Alvaro Saborio (11 goals). Espindola was part of a rebuilding process begun by RSL coach Jason Kreis in 2007, and he has been an important member of the attack since. Re-signing him this past offseason was a top priority for the team, and he signed a four-year deal. He has two goals this season.
NOTEBOOK
Rapids: Western Conference teams play each other three times this season, and RSL gets the advantage over Colorado. Two of the three games between the Rocky Mountain rivals will be played in Utah. Next season, that will be reversed. … The Rocky Mountain Cup was created in 2005 by supporters of both clubs to reward the best team in the rivalry. The Rapids won the first two editions, but RSL won in 2007 and has held the Cup since. … Goalkeeper Matt Pickens needs one more shutout to tie Joe Cannon for most all time for the Rapids (25).
Real Salt Lake: RSL leads the Western Conference with a 4-1-0 record but has played only one road game, at Portland a week ago. In that game, RSL got a tying goal in the 89th minute, then former Rapids midfielder Kyle Beckerman scored the game-winner three minutes into stoppage time. … RSL places a great priority on continuity. Ten players have been with the team since July 2008 or longer, an MSL record for stability. … RSL is playing its third game in eight days.
John Meyer, The Denver Post
