Real Salt Lake are into third in the Western Conference courtesy of a narrow 1-0 away victory against San Jose Earthquakes.

The visitors took the lead a minute before half time when Javier Morales's free kick proved too good for Earthquakes keeper David Bingham.

San Jose almost got back on level terms in first-half stoppage time when Adam Jahn dragged his close range shot wide of Nick Rimando's goal before JJ Koval's header was blocked by the Real defence.

Koval again went close for the hosts just before the hour mark when he latched on to Matias Perez Garcia's cross before seeing his strike saved by Rimando.

Salt Lake almost added a second late on as Jamison Olave's header from Morales's cross was kept out by Bingham.

However, Real were able to see out the game to move four behind Western Conference leaders Vancouver Whitecaps.