MLS Player Ratings: FC Dallas 2-1 Real Salt Lake

Hartman played well in his return from injury. He held Salt Lake's attack to one goal that no keeper could have stopped.

Benitez played physical defense and was involved in a couple hard challenges. One involved his studs and ended in a booking.

Loyd's fiesty defense paid off for Dallas on a couple plays.

Ihemelu was responsible for Espindola's early goal and missed on a couple critical plays.

Gonclaves played solid defense and didn't concede a goal. Or in other words, he did exactly what a good defender does.

Chavez played physical defense and contributed on offense. He was the role player Dallas needed in the match.

The Dallas captain was lucky to escape without a second yellow card, but his physical play and calm leadership kept Dallas in the match.

McCarty contributed on offense, but he wasn't a significant player in this match.

Harris played great offense early, but earning a foolish red card will be his most memorable play of the match. Had Dallas not taken the lead, Harris would be public enemy #1 for Dallas fans right now.

Ferreira created numerous opportunities, but his play was not the MVP caliber we've come to expect.

Rodriguez left early with an injury, but that probably was good for Dallas. While he created chances, he wasn't creating the offense Dallas needed to keep Salt Lake on defense.

Rimando gave up two goals, but he couldn't have done much on either. He was out of position on a few plays, but he made a couple solid saves to compensate.

Despite conceding an early corner, Wingert played strong defense in a very physical match.

Borchers was a roller coaster for this match: flashes of good play but he also made some critical mistakes.

Olave's physical presence was a help for Salt Lake, but the Colombian didn't play his best match.

Russell played a solid role but didn't stand out on any play in this match.

Grabavoy played solid offense and defense. He nearly gave Salt Lake an early 2-0 lead.

The Salt Lake captain played well, but not well enough. His deflection led to Cunningham's goal.

Williams assisted on Espindola's goal and continued to play the solid offensive soccer he is known for in Salt Lake.

Saborio had one good opportunity to score and it was saved by Hartman. He was a contributor on offense, but Salt Lake needs him to score if they want another cup.

Espindola's early goal was a thing of beauty. His hard work persisted throughout the match and he created numerous chances. He was pulled to compensate for the red card, but Kreis probably second-guessed himself for removing the Argentine when Harris was sent off and the match became a 10 v 10 affair.