Throughout the year, a lot of games will be hyped as the "game of the year." Real Salt Lake playing the Portland Timbers for the third time in about three weeks didn't quite live up to that lofty billing, but it came pretty darn close. A big reason was the quality of the six goals scored, the best of which was a Javier Morales bicycle kick that stood up as the game-winner.
Javier Morales’ bicycle kick stands up as Real Salt Lake’s game-winner
RSL shows they are top dog in MLS after demolition of Timbers.
Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
The goal came off a corner kick, the first of two set-piece goals the Timbers allowed on the night. Morales was left completely unmarked at the back post. His first touch was a bit heavy, but it set him up perfectly for a bicycle kick. Still with no defenders with a few yards of him, Morales hit it clean off the inside of the far post. Watch:
Also of note about the goal was that it was Morales seventh of the season, which ties a career high. He also has 10 assists, which are more than he’s had in any season since having 15 in 2008. In case there was any doubt that the central playmaker was totally back from the broken leg he suffered in 2011, this season should put any of those concerns away.
Just for good measure, Morales also picked up an assist on RSL’s final goal. The Argentine’s free kick was perfectly placed for Alvaro Saborio to head past Timbers goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts.
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