LA Galaxy vs. Real Salt Lake: Three Questions with RSL Soapbox

The LA Galaxy and Real Salt Lake are just about ready to kick off their MLS round 15 bout. It's an international weekend, meaning absences, and half of MLS has taken the weekend off. We asked three questions of RSL Soapbox's Matt Montgomery. As always, my answers to his questions will show up over there.

1. How have RSL coped with being without Alvaro Saborio?

RSLS: Knowing we'd be without Saborio for a few weeks was, I admit, a difficult pill to swallow. He's been one of our key figures, without a doubt, and a potent goalscorer. The big question was whether we could score goals without him. Clearly, that's not been a problem, and we're finally ironing out the tactical look of a Joao Plata-Robbie Findley pairing up top.

2. Tell me about this Devon Sandoval. He's gotten a few starts in this young season, how's he coming along?

RSLS: Players in the traditional "number 9" mold are rare; rookies that fit that billing are even more so. For his first professional season, Sandoval has played remarkably well and earned minutes as a result. He doesn't look phased when he plays, he runs essentially endlessly, and he's netted a goal for his efforts. He's not there yet - and he's certainly no full replacement for Saborio - but he's turning heads for all the right reasons.

3. Luis Gil will be away for three weeks, it was announced today. Is he the everyday guy now, or does he have a platoon mate who can step right in?

RSLS: Losing Luis Gil isn't optimal, and he's generally a starting player, but to be totally honest, he's not been anything incredible out there. I mean, you wouldn't expect a kid his age to be, so it's not a real sticking point, but we can bring in one of Sebastian Velasquez and Khari Stephenson to start the match and we don't experience a drop-off. That's refreshing.