HERRIMAN, Utah – If it feels like there’s been a different player step up over the course of Real Monarchs SLC’s league-leading 12 wins this season, it’s likely because that’s been an overriding theme for the side as it defends its USL Regular Season Championship this year.

On Tuesday night it was the turn of Andrew Brody, whose first goal of the season sent the Western Conference leaders to a 1-0 victory against Fresno FC at Zions Bank Stadium that extended the club’s lead to five points over second-place Phoenix Rising FC as Real took its fourth win in its last five outings. Brody is the 12th different player to find the net for the Monarchs this season, and the ninth to officially record what proved to be the game-winning goal.

“I think a good thing about this group is everyone can score; everyone can find the back of the net,” said Brody. “We have faith in everybody; we trust everybody. Today it happened to me but next game it could be the left back or the center back.”

Brody’s fifth goal in his career for the Monarchs came despite lining up in an unfamiliar role at right back for the hosts. More conventionally used higher up the field, the 23-year-old showed off his attacking instincts as he cut in from the flank before playing off Chandler Hoffman to open space for a clever finish with the outside of his right boot in the eighth minute.

“That play was something me and Chandler have actually worked on,” said Brody. “When I see him check in behind, then he checks back into me, play him, and I know I’m getting it right back. Credit to him, and then [he] sets me up for an easy touch, easy finish.”

On the opposing side, the manner of Brody’s goal was also disappointing for Foxes Head Coach Adam Smith as the lack of pressure on the ball proved key to the opportunity.

“I’m very disappointed with it,” said Smith. “We talked about putting pressure on the ball and not allowing Salt Lake to move us around because they are very good at it.”

The goal proved enough as Real subsequently allowed Fresno only two shots on goal to move its undefeated home record this season to 7-0-1. While Foxes goalkeeper Kyle Reynish kept the hosts from adding to their lead with a six-save display, the Monarchs’ control over the contest was pleasing for Interim Head Coach Jamison Olave.

“The place is feeling really good,” said Olave. “They know they work hard. They could’ve made the game a little easy by just putting the chances away, but they still fought, and we get the result for the shutout and that says how strong the team is going.”

With the side set to visit both Reno 1868 FC and Sacramento Republic FC on the road next week as it looks to maintain its lead at the top of the West, the Monarchs were appreciative of the brief sojourn home during a run of four games out of five on the road.

“It feels like a while since we’ve been here but [it’s] great to get a win in front of the fans, keep the clean sheet here and get the three points for the fans,” said Brody.