Anderson Julio Makes MLS Team Of The Week After Debut Brace

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Real Salt Lake beat Minnesota United this past weekend to open their 2021 MLS season campaign. Newly signed winger Anderson Julio scored both goals and was rewarded by being named to the MLS Team of the Week.

Speed Kills

Julio, who joined RSL earlier this year on loan from Liga MX side Atlético San Luis, received his first start for RSL during the away trip to Minnesota.

The first half, despite the lack of possession, saw RSL head into the locker room 2-0 up. The first goal came after Julio pounced onto the loose ball following a dangerous counterattack. His finish found the top right corner and gave the visitors the early lead.

Then, a mistake by Minnesota’s left-back was exploited by Rubio Rubin who dribbled down the right flank. Fortunately, just before Rubin found himself in trouble, he looked into the box and saw a streaking Julio alone at the penalty spot.

🗣️ SQUAD!!!https://t.co/GLDyZ5suGS | @Audi #GoalsDriveProgress pic.twitter.com/n2XwJfWtsv

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) April 26, 2021

A basic pass into the area found Julio who tapped the ball into the back of the net.

Bad Boy Ochoa

The other member who was recognized as part of the MLS Team of the Week was goalkeeper David Ochoa who concluded his debut road start for RSL.

Throughout the game, Ochoa made a number of key plays to help RSL survive the late onslaught from Minnesota. He conceded a goal in the 85th minute after Robin Lod hit a half volley with speed and tucked it into the bottom left corner.

Then, following the final whistle, after receiving words from Minnesota fans after requiring treatment late in the game, Ochoa kicked the ball into the grandstand much to the displeasure of the Minnesota players.

A minor scuffle broke out as the emotions ran wild following the final whistle.

Minnesota Manager Adrian Heath then spoke to the media and was quoted saying that “he’s [Ochoa] got some edge on him for a kid who’s not that good.”

Adrian Heath's comments on Ochoa's actions are not going to calm things down 😂 pic.twitter.com/NVypBiXRDc

— CJ Fogler #BlackLivesMatter (@cjzero) April 25, 2021

RSL matches can be streamed for free by downloading the KSL 5 TV app or on KSLSports.com.

The next fixture is set for Saturday, May 1st against Sporting Kansas City with kickoff scheduled for noon. It will mark the first home game of the season for RSL.