LAFC manager Steve Cherundolo expressed his deep disappointment and frustration at the decision to go ahead with the game against Real Salt Lake despite the heavy snow cover on the field. He described the situation as an “absolute disgrace” and one of the worst professional sporting events he had ever witnessed.
The Major League Soccer clash, which took place in Sandy, Utah, faced extreme weather conditions that led to a two-hour delay. The match was eventually halted after only four minutes due to poor lighting, and when it restarted, the field was completely covered in snow. Throughout the game, more snow continued to fall, making it difficult for the players to navigate the pitch.
Despite the challenging conditions, Real Salt Lake managed to secure a victory in the blizzard-like atmosphere, with Andres Gomez scoring a brace. The game’s outcome sparked further frustration from Cherundolo, who believed that the match should have been called off altogether.
The snow cover on the field was so severe that it had to be shoveled away at halftime to make essential markings visible, such as the halfway line, six-yard boxes, and 18-yard boxes. Additionally, officials introduced an orange ball during the second half to improve visibility. Cherundolo expressed regret for subjecting the players to such harsh conditions, acknowledging that it was impossible for them to perform at their best.
The events that transpired during the LAFC vs Real Salt Lake game highlighted the challenges that extreme weather conditions can pose in sporting events. The decision to continue with the match despite the heavy snow cover drew sharp criticism from Cherundolo, who deemed it a disgrace. Moving forward, it is essential for sporting organizations to prioritize player safety and well-being when faced with such adverse conditions.