Real Monarchs Draw 1-1 at Tacoma Defiance

September 14, 2024 – MLS NEXT Pro (MLS NEXT Pro)
Real Monarchs News Release

TUKWILA, Wash. (Fri) – Real Monarchs (7-12-6, 31 Pts, 12th West) drew Tacoma Defiance 1-1 in a hotly contested MLS Next Pro Pacific Division clash under the lights at Starfire Sports Complex, the two teams combining for 30 fouls and 13 total cards. Heading to a shootout with a third point up for grabs, Real Monarchs emerged victorious 5-4, the result marking five of six unbeaten for SLC.

Both teams coming out for the first 45 with fresh legs and something to play for, chances came in bunches as the affair developed a blistering pace early. Aided by Tacoma’s notoriously narrow, 70-yards-wide pitch, Manager Mark Lowry’s Monarchs played a more direct attacking style en route to a loud but scoreless first half, each team finishing with five shots and two shots on target. The first period of play also saw the Real Monarchs debut of recently signed 24-year-old midfielder Nicolás Ovalle. Another highlight, Daron Iskenderian was a constant threat, the attacking midfielder tallying a season-high four shots in the first half.

Coming out for the second half on the hunt for all three points, Real Monarchs looked to be gaining momentum when a longball turned defensive miscommunication became a Tacoma Defiance goal in the 60th minute of play. Despite a barrage of chances and eight shots, it seemed like SLC would be unable to equalize when Monarchs won a threatening free kick late in the match. Tommy Silva provided the service, his cross was cleared directly back to him when he found Zavier Gozo in the center of the box for a beautiful flick goal over the head of the ‘keeper at the 85’ mark.

With the momentum and a late equalizer in hand, the two squads headed for a shootout to decide who would take home the third point up for grabs. The first nine shooters converting, Fernando Delgado made a diving save on the 10th and decisive kick to seal the extra point for his squad.

With only three regular season matches left on the schedule, Real Monarchs continues their campaign next with a road matchup against LAFC 2 on Monday, Sept. 23.

GOAL-SCORING SUMMARY:

TAC – 60′ – Raul Miglietti (Unassisted): As Tacoma built up from the back line, defender Stuart Hawkins spotted the run of his right winger and played a long through ball over the top of the Monarchs defense. Left back Tommy Silva spotted the threat and outpaced Sebastian Gomez to reach it first. With Gomez coming in hot, Silva attempted to play back…