PHOENIX, Arizona (Saturday, April 7, 2018) – Real Monarchs SLC (3-0-0, 9 points, West 4) blanked hosts Phoenix Rising FC 1-0 courtesy of a MF Sebastian Velasquez strike in the 57th minute in front of 6,531 at Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex. The win sees the Monarchs remain undefeated to open 2018 as well as earn its first shutout of the year.
The first half of the match opened physically with both sides immediately applying pressure to one another in an attempt to put a stamp on the game. The half’s best opportunity fell to Rising FC midfielder Gladson Awako who’s effort from just outside the penalty area in the 33rd minute rattled off the bar.