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Chivas Vs. RSL: Goats Pull Off Stunner On Road

Chivas USA were able to pull of a huge early season upset, defeating Real Salt Lake 1-0 at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy Utah. The win was Chivas' first of 2012, and their first points in their third match.

By Josie Becker
SANDY, UT - MARCH 24: Oswaldo Minda #8 of Chivas USA heads the ball away from Luis Gil #21 of Real Salt Lake during the first half at Rio Tinto Stadium on March 24, 2012, in Sandy, Utah. (Photo by Douglas C. Pizac/Getty Images)
SANDY, UT - MARCH 24: Oswaldo Minda #8 of Chivas USA heads the ball away from Luis Gil #21 of Real Salt Lake during the first half at Rio Tinto Stadium on March 24, 2012, in Sandy, Utah. (Photo by Douglas C. Pizac/Getty Images)

Chivas USA were able to pull of a huge early season upset, defeating Real Salt Lake 1-0 at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy Utah. The win was Chivas' first of 2012, and their first points in their third match. They were the only Western Conference team without a win in the first two weeks.

Casey Townsend was the one to put the ball in the back of the net for Chivas in the 76'. Ante Jazic sent in a cross from the left hand corner, and Townsend challenged Rimando for it. With the ball falling in the box, Townsend was able to kick it in with his right foot before the keeper could make a second reaction.

Chivas then had to go into bunker mode, with a one goal lead on the road. Having withstood RSL's attack in the first half, the goats were up for the challenge again. Some clutch defensive stops by McKenzie made all the difference, and Kennedy made some fine saves.

It's a result that shakes up the Western Conference early in the season, in a season which has already been a bit wacky. Chivas share last place in the West with the LA Galaxy, who are off this weekend. Chivas' next match is at The Home Depot Center next Sunday against Sporting Kansas City, with the LA Galaxy hosting the New England Revolution on Saturday.

For more on Chivas USA, check out The Goat Parade.