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SANDY — Jeff Attinella didn't expect to play a key role in Real Salt Lake's 3-0 win over FC Dallas, but when called upon, he was ready.
The third string goalkeeper was thrust into duty when veteran backup Josh Saunders suffered a knee injury in the 51st minute. It was Attinella's first MLS action, but the 24-year old from Florida performed like a seasoned veteran. He made two big saves that helped RSL win in Texas for the first time in franchise history.
"I knew when Nick was going to be gone that there is always a slight possibility that something could happen," he said. "I did my best to train hard and stay ready for the opportunity. Luckily it went well for me."
Head Coach Jason Kreis had confidence in his rookie goalkeeper and was impressed with the way he performed in a very difficult situation.
"Yeah, he did very, very well," Kreis said. "It's awesome to see another player contribute for us in a very meaningful fashion."
Real Salt Lake has lost four players to season-ending injuries, and Attinella is the latest player to step up and make a big contribution for a team that currently sits atop the table.
The man responsible for bringing him to Real Salt Lake wasn't surprised by his performance.
Yeah, he did very, very well. It's awesome to see another player contribute for us in a very meaningful fashion.
–Jason Kreis
"Jeff Attinella was voted the best goalkeeper in the minors last year," said Real Salt Lake general manager Garth Lagerway. "He finished second overall in MVP voting in the whole league. This is not a guy who is unproven or untested."
Attinella was the starting goalkeeper for the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the NASL in 2012. He saved three penalties in the league championship game, leading his team to a title. He also spent time on loan this season to the Fort Lauderdale strikers, and the game experience helped prepare him for this moment.
Now, he faces a much different challenge. He will make the first start of his MLS career Saturday when RSL hosts Eastern Conference leader Sporting Kansas City.
"I'm trying to fill the shoes of the best goalie in the MLS," he said about starting in place of Nick Rimando, who is with the US Men's National Team. "They're definitely big shoes to fill, but I'm just going to go out there and try to do my best, and hopefully keep this streak going for the team."
Real Salt Lake enters Saturday's match against Sporting Kansas City with an 11-match unbeaten streak in all competitions and an eight-match unbeaten streak in MLS play.
