Real Salt Lake is a team that prides itself on having depth, with numerous players capable of contributing on any given night.

RSL's first-round playoff opponent, however, is the model of depth and consistency in Major League Soccer. That was never more evident than in Columbus' 3-1 victory over Real Salt Lake back on July 18 at Crew Stadium.

Because of injuries, suspensions and national team call-ups, both teams were significantly shorthanded, but only one seemed adversely affected by the situation. Without starters Chad Marshall, Robbie Rogers, Guillermo Barros Schellotto, Alejandro Moreno, Emmanuel Ekpo and Adam Moffat, the Crew didn't miss a beat in a convincing victory that at the time extended their home unbeaten streak to 18 straight.

Similarly, RSL's depth was put to the test without Kyle Beckerman, Will Johnson, Andy Williams, Fabian Espindola and Jean Alexandre, but the Real club didn't handle the situation nearly as well.

"We went into Columbus and played against their second team and got thumped," said Nat Borchers.

It wasn't an overwhelming thrashing for the Crew, but rather a typical performance for the defending MLS champs who played great defense and made the most of their chances.

That's what Real Salt Lake expects from the Crew again during their two-game playoff series which gets under way Saturday at Rio Tinto Stadium.

"It's a quality opponent, I think its got quality players. The team collectively is a very good team. I think that's why they've had success the past couple of years, they all buy into the team philosophy and working for each other," said RSL coach Jason Kreis.

Despite the team-first mantra, there are a handful of all-star caliber players.

Guillermo Barros Schellotto was the 2008 league MVP, and even though his production has dropped off a bit, he's still had an excellent season with 12 goals and three assists.

Defensively, the Crew are capable of shutting down any attack with up-and-coming U.S. National Team defender Chad Marshall, veteran U.S. defender Frankie Hejduk and several other standout defenders with international experience.

Columbus' depth may get tested in the playoffs again. Marshall has a sprained MCL and hasn't played a match since Sept. 13. Columbus coach Robert Warzycha said Marshall will be available for selection for Saturday's match, but he may opt to hold him out for the return leg in Columbus the following Thursday.

With the departure of coach Sigi Schmid to Seattle at the conclusion of last season, it took this year's Columbus team several months to get things figured out under its new coach.