MLS team left embarrassed as raccoon falls through roof of media centre
Media members at a Real Salt Lake game got a unique shock after a racoon fell from the ceiling while the match was delayed due to extreme weather.
Taking the phrase "raining cats and dogs " to another level, members of the press were stunned as the small animal dropped from the roof of the press room at America First Field. Already having taken shelter from the downpours outside, those gathered looked on in disbelief as the brazen racoon made himself at home.
Taking the hefty drop from the ceiling with particular aplomb, it then made its way towards the popcorn dispenser- much to the amusement of witnesses. The valiant racoon appeared to make a run for it after it seemingly sensed it had been noticed.
The drama did not end there either as it then made its way towards some railings overlooking the main concourse, which was filled with fans who were waiting for kick-off. Supporters quickly became aware of the scene that was unfolding, though, and it soon became clear that practially everyone was gripped by the unique sight.
Things quickly nearly turned awry as the racoon seemingly took his life into its own hands, so to speak, resulting in those gathered holding their breath. A collective shriek went up as the little animal dropped down several feet once but he soon scarpered unscathed.
Furious chimp launches bottle at girl filming him leaving her bleeding at zooAs the clip went on, the crowd was seen to be split in two as the racoon ran in between the legs of those present at some speed. The spectacle finally came to a close, however, when the daring animal ran out of shot and was seemingly captured by officials.
On closer inspection, it appeared that the racoon's initial fall from the ceiling had come about after it had seemingly broken through some panelling overhead. A cavity was very much visible showing where the animal had dropped from following the astonishing incident.
The dramatic scene was not the sort of thing supporters were expecting to see as they arrived at the Utah venue but it turned out to be the biggest spectacle of the night. The game itself was eventually postponed after the lightning storm showed seldom signs of relenting.
As a result, MLS team Real Salt Lake's clash Mexican outfit Club Leon has been re-arranged, with fans having been left in limbo for three-and-a-half hours as Leagues Cup organisers mooted whether to call proceedings off. The game will now be played on August 4 at 7:00 p.m. local time.
Whoever emerges victorious from that game will play MLS Cup holders Los Angeles FC in the Round of 16 of the knockout tournament. The Californian team dispatched of Juarez FC 7-1 in their previous fixture.