Real Monarchs SLC fielded a young side against OKC Energy FC with Luis Arriaga, Sebastian Vazquez and David Ochoa down on assignment from RSL joining fellow academy product Jordan Pena. Martinez, Chang, Blake, Powder, Ryden, Plewa and Moberg rounded out the starting 11 and provided a experienced defensive core.
Despite having 58 percent possession through the first half, the Monarchs struggled for connection in the offensive third as they failed to effectively involve leading scorer Douglas Martinez with long high balls. The height and experience of central defenders Christian Ibeagha and Atiba Harris worked to the advantage of the Energy as they connected for good opportunities on quick scramble attacks and seemed the more dangerous side.