MLS Cup: Russell Penalty Kick Helps Real Salt Lake Stun L.A. Galaxy For Title

November 23, 2009 5:23 a.m. EST

Seattle, WA (AHN) - Robbie Russell scored in the seventh round of penalty kicks, and Real Salt Lake won their first franchise MLS Cup, upsetting the Los Angeles Galaxy 5-4 on penalties in a spirited victory late Sunday night.

Los Angeles took the lead when Mike Magee connected on a cross-pass from MVP Landon Donovan in the 41st minute. Robbie Findley scored the equalizer in the 64th minute to make it 1-1.

The match lasted 120 minutes, and fatigue was setting in for both sides. Donovan, who has played solidly on the penalty, missed an opportunity when his shot sailed over the crossbar during the fourth round.

Los Angeles star David Beckham scored first to start the penalty kicks. Clint Mathis tied it up defeating Los Angeles keeper Josh Saunders.

Saunders replaced starter Donovan Ricketts in the second half after he injured his right hand in a collision.

RSL keeper Nick Rimando made two sparkling stops. His first was a diving catch against Jovan Kirovski in the third round, and against Edson Buddle during the last round.

Andrew Williams evened it 4-4 for RSL in the sixth that set up the momentum for Russell goal winner.