Winning might make stadium a Real-ity

It was a kick in the gut for Real Salt Lake. Another defeat on a precarious, frustrating journey. You had to wonder if Utah's Major League Soccer team might give up entirely.

I'm not talking about Tuesday's stadium defeat; I'm referring to everything that has happened on the playing field since early June.

Compared to RSL's on-field performance, "The Adventures of Pluto Nash" was a flying success.

The big news Tuesday was Salt Lake County Council's rejection of a proposal to bring a soccer stadium to Sandy. The numbers didn't add up, according to the council. What that means is soccer in that suburban city is likely dead. Sandy Mayor Tom Dolan said he is finished dealing with the council. If he gets stadium money approved, it will probably have to come from the Legislature.

The team could also end up at Utah State Fairpark, where Salt Lake Mayor Rocky Anderson desires. It might even leave town and reappear in Las Vegas, Austin, Nashville, Tucson or some other sports-coveting town.

Team CEO Dean Howes and owner Dave Checketts didn't rule out that possibility.

It's hard to say what will happen next, except this: No stadium plan is going to work unless RSL starts winning.

People didn't pay to see a loser movie like "Pluto Nash."

Why pay to see a loser soccer team?

It has been two years since RSL first appeared. There were press conferences, balloons, music, banners and, of course, lots of drums. Things seemed to be progressing well. Buoyed by the optimism of thousands of soccer fans in Utah, RSL cleared several major hurdles early.

Despite having the second-worst record in Major League Soccer last year, most people seemed to understand. Besides, Real led the league in attendance.

But this year it still can't win. RSL hasn't claimed a league game since June 3 and attendance is waning. There have been reports of team turmoil, thanks to remarks by outspoken forward Jeff Cunningham. Coach John Ellinger has made no secret of his displeasure with the team's effort.

The club went six games to start the season before winning and now has gone another six in MLS play. It has the worst overall record in the league and the third-lowest scoring average. It also has the second-worst goals-against average.

Attendance has dropped to fifth among of 12 teams this year.