Real Salt Lake opened the scoring in the 28th minute, with Damir Kreilach rising for a headed goal from a Corey Baird cross. The goal came somewhat against the run of play, and it heralded a rush of opportunities for RSL — including a shot that touched off the post from Albert Rusnak and a skied shot from close range — and a somewhat difficult angle — for Jefferson Savarino.
The 69th minute brought a flurry from Vancouver Whitecaps, but a fingertip save from RSL goalkeeper Nick Rimando pushed a shot onto his far post as RSL struggled to hold on to possession inside their own defensive third.