Los Angeles Football Club grabbed a last minute 2-1 win against Real Salt Lake Saturday, March 23 at Banc of California Stadium. A long strike from defender Walker Zimmerman in stoppage time changed a game that seemed destined to end in a draw. LAFC got their taste of ‘revenge’ after Real Salt Lake eliminated them from last year’s MLS playoffs.

Even First Half

The first half hour was not the best from either team offensively, but had a few feisty moments. LAFC had possession of the ball but were unable to create any dangerous chances. Real Salt Lake proposed a more defensive style with quick transitions into the attack.  Midfielder Damir Kreilach gave Salt Lake the lead in the 35th minute from the penalty spot. A too big of a reward for what Real Salt Lake had done so far in the match. Only five minutes later, LAFC forward Diego Rossi tied things up with a one-time hit after a poor clearance from the defense.

Zimmerman Breaks The Defensive Wall

Salt Lake midfielder Sebastian Saucedo scored right after the break but was called offside. For the remaining of the game, LAFC pushed Salt Lake into their defensive third. LAFC were faced by a very organized and disciplined defense that gave up no spaces. Salt Lake midfielder Justin Portillo was sent off  in the 84th minute only nine minutes after being substituted in. When things looked to end in a bitter draw, Zimmerman’s golazo in stoppage time gave LA a deserved win.

LAFC’s 3252 Supporters Section

In a tight game that ended in a dramatic way, the best part was LAFC’s 3252 supporters section. Throughout the whole match, these outstanding and passionate fans made an atmosphere like no other. When the team was behind, they were the first step to an outstanding comeback. The atmosphere they create is the closest you can get to a South American one. Every team in the league should learn from this. Fans like these are the ones that make soccer the beautiful game.