Realistically, as dominating as the Rapids were in the opening half, Real Salt Lake was lucky not to trail by more at halftime. At the same time, one could argue RSL was unlucky not to be tie at the break. In the 43rd minute, Chris Wingert sent a swerving cross into the box, a ball Clint Mathis headed on frame only to see Rapids keeper Bouna Coundoul get a fingertip on the ball and push it into the right post.

"I really believe no matter how many times we preached that we were going to be aggressive, I really believe they felt like we were going to keep numbers back ... and at midfield they were running over us," said Kreis.

In the second half, RSL made a few line-up changes that increased its level of play, but it only lasted for a while. Colorado successfully slowed things down in the final quarter hour with RSL struggling after switching to the 3-5-2 formation, and Salt Lake didn't help its chances by clumsily giving the ball away far too easily.

It seemed like a forgone conclusion that Colorado would win.

It took a 90th-minute goal to push the club over the top. It was a pair of halftime substitutes that created the opportunity as well. Robbie Russell headed the ball to Andy Williams from the top of the box, with Williams unleashing a shot from 12 yards out that was spectacularly saved by Bouna Coundoul. Movsisyan was right there to pounce on the rebound though for the all-important equalizer.

"I would say that's the first point we've picked up all year that I would maybe say we didn't deserve," said Kreis.

RSL playoff schedule

Game 1: Chivas USA at RSL, Nov. 1, 4 p.m.

Game 2: RSL at Chivas USA, Nov. 8, 8:30 p.m.

Note: Both matches will be broadcast on Fox Soccer Channel

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E-mail: jedward@desnews.com