SANDY, Utah (ABC4 Sports) - Real Salt Lake had two games in hand against its competitors for the final playoffs positions in the Western Conference, but were unable to take advantage in its first one.

Korean superstar Son Heung-min secured his first MLS hat trick on a sliding finish in the 82nd minute and LAFC beat Real Salt Lake 4-1 on Wednesday night.

Real Salt Lake (10-15-4) remains one point behind San Jose for the final play-in spot in the Western Conference, and has lost four of its last five matches.

"They're a team that took advantage of fortuitous moments," said RSL head coach Pablo Mastroeni. "And obviously with Son, he's a killer."

Heung-min, who joining LAFC a month ago from the English Premier League, scored on a breakaway in the third minute for a 1-0 lead. He was left wi

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