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Sandy Today
By the People, for the People
Spierings scores in MLS debut as Real Salt Lake beats Austin
30-year-old former Netherlands youth international leads Real Salt Lake to victory
Mar. 15, 2026 at 4:22am
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Stijn Spierings, a 30-year-old former Netherlands youth international, scored a goal in his MLS debut to help Real Salt Lake beat Austin FC 2-1 on Saturday night. Spierings ran onto a ball played ahead by Justen Glad and blasted a first-touch shot from well outside the area to give Real Salt Lake the lead.
Why it matters
Spierings' debut goal is a promising start to his MLS career, as Real Salt Lake looks to build on their success from last season. The win also keeps Real Salt Lake competitive in the Western Conference standings early in the 2026 season.
The details
Spierings, who previously played in the Netherlands, made an immediate impact in his first MLS match. In the 67th minute, he received a pass from teammate Justen Glad and fired a powerful shot from outside the box that found the back of the net to give Real Salt Lake a 2-1 lead, which they would hold on to for the victory.
- The match took place on Saturday, March 15, 2026.
- Spierings scored the game-winning goal in the 67th minute.
The players
Stijn Spierings
A 30-year-old former Netherlands youth international making his MLS debut for Real Salt Lake.
Justen Glad
A Real Salt Lake player who provided the assist on Spierings' game-winning goal.
Real Salt Lake
The MLS club that defeated Austin FC 2-1 in this match.
Austin FC
The MLS club that lost 2-1 to Real Salt Lake in this match.
What they’re saying
“Stijn has been working hard in training and we're thrilled to see him get off to such a strong start in MLS. His goal was a real difference-maker for us tonight.”
— Pablo Mastroeni, Real Salt Lake Head Coach
What’s next
Real Salt Lake will look to build on this win as they continue their MLS season, while Austin FC will aim to bounce back in their next match.
The takeaway
Spierings' debut goal is an exciting moment for Real Salt Lake and a promising sign for the club's future, as they integrate new talent like the former Netherlands youth international into their lineup.
