Rapids-Real Salt Lake preview

More than a trophy is on the line in the latest Rocky Mountain Cup rivalry game.

Real Salt Lake can climb another step up the Western Conference ladder with a win over the Colorado Rapids on Friday night.

Three points separate the two rivals in the MLS standings. Salt Lake (11-8-7), which is in the midst of a three-game homestand, is unbeaten in 12 matches at home this season.

Real Salt Lake knocked off FC Dallas 1-0 in its last home match, thanks to a goal from defender Jamison Olave in the 78th minute. Olave drove home the rebound after Dallas goalkeeper Chris Seitz saved a shot from Joao Plata.

Salt Lake earned only its fourth shutout of the season and first since blanking Vancouver 1-0 on April 16.

Keeping opponents off the scoreboard hasn't been a problem for Colorado. The Rapids (11-3-10) are the only MLS team conceding less than one goal per match. They have allowed just 20 goals in 24 matches (0.83 goals against average) and played to scoreless draw against Orlando City SC to extend their unbeaten streak to three games.

As a team, Colorado has earned a league best 10 shutouts. Goalkeeper Tim Howard has four shutouts in eight appearances since his return to the league.

The Rapids will need a strong effort on both ends of the pitch to snap a lengthy road winless streak against Real Salt Lake. Colorado last won in Utah on April 30, 2007. Since that time, Salt Lake has posted nine wins and four draws at home against its rival.

This is the third meeting between Real Salt Lake and the Rapids this season. Salt Lake won 1-0 on a goal from Plata on April 9 at Rio Tinto Stadium. Colorado prevailed 1-0 behind a goal from Jermaine Jones on May 7 at Dick's Sporting Goods Park.