Real Salt Lake: Jamison Olave, Javier Morales, Kyle Beckerman named MLS All-Stars

LEHI — When Real Salt Lake won the MLS Cup last season, many called it a fluke. It was said that the team's title run was just a case of a team getting hot at the right time. It wasn't given the respect usually reserved for a champion.

Now that RSL (9-3-3, 30 points) has had a terrific first half to the Major League Soccer season and established itself as one of the league's elite, perhaps now it is finally getting the recognition it deserves. And that recognition comes in individual honors as three members of the team have been selected as MLS First XI All-Stars. Jamison Olave, Javier Morales and Kyle Beckerman were all chosen to represent MLS when its top players face Manchester United of the English Premier League in Houston July 28.

"I am really happy for this; I have been working for it," said Olave. "I am happy for the opportunity. It is unbelievable."

"I think it always helps when your team is doing well you are definitely going to get more guys in there. From winning it last year, we are known in the league now as a good team," added Beckerman.

The other players selected to the MLS team are: Landon Donovan (L.A. Galaxy), Edson Buddle (L.A. Galaxy), Dwayne De Rosario (Toronto FC), Guillermo Barros Schelotto (Columbus Crew), Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew), Omar Gonzalez (L.A. Galaxy), midfielder Marco Pappa (Chicago Fire) and goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts (L.A. Galaxy).

The First XI was selected by a combined vote of fans, coaches, general managers, players and media. The First XI is not necessarily the starting 11 for the All-Star Game. Los Angeles Galaxy and MLS All-Star coach Bruce Arena will select the starters based on availability and how he sees fit in trying to beat Manchester United.

Last season, Utah hosted the annual All-Star Game, and Morales and Beckerman were selected to the All-Star squad by MLS commissioner Don Garber. Will Johnson was also a late addition after an injury scratch. While there is still the possibility of more Real players playing in the game — goalkeeper Nick Rimando is a near lock to be selected, and forward Alvaro Saborio is a very strong candidate — the first three won't have to wait until next week, when the remaining 12 players are selected.

"Last year, Kyle and me were the last two and the game was in Rio Tinto Stadium, but this year is different," said Morales. "The First XI is good for me.

"This is my second year, and that is big. They (Manchester) are one of the best teams in the world, so it is a good experience for me and my teammates. Some day I can tell my children I played against Manchester United."

Along with the players getting their due, it is also a huge honor for Real.