After claiming the throne a week ago, Real Monarchs SLC remained on top of the USLSoccer.com Power Rankings for a second consecutive week. The Monarchs’ eighth consecutive victory tied the USL record on Saturday night, and moved the club two points clear of San Antonio FC in the Western Conference standings.

While the team’s attack has been getting most of the plaudits, and rightfully so after averaging 2.5 goals per game this season, the team’s defense is also starting to weigh in as the Monarchs look to surpass the eight-game winning streak set by 2014 side Orlando City SC. Three shutouts in the past five games have been crucial to the team’s success, and helped bring Real’s goals-against average for the season to 0.90.

Interestingly, the Monarchs’ defensive numbers aren’t that far off those of San Antonio, which is well on its way to not only a potential shutout streak record after seven consecutive clean sheets, but potentially other places in the USL record books at the end of the season. The Monarchs have allowed 43 shots to San Antonio’s 39, while the team’s tacking rates sit at 77.9 percent (SAFC) and 77.2 percent (RMSLC) respectively.

With Reno 1868 FC coming to Rio Tinto Stadium next Monday night, the Monarchs will have to earn every bit of the victory that would set a record. With the way the team is currently performing, though, it certainly appears within reach.

The five-person USLSoccer.com voting panel tabulates 10 points for first-place team votes, nine points to the second-place team and so forth to one point for 10th place. The accrued points among the group determines the final ranking.

Here’s your new Top 10.

1. Real Monarchs SLC (49pts)

Last Week: W 2-0 vs. Portland Timbers 2

The Monarchs were at their best in their victory against the Portland Timbers 2 on Saturday, comfortably outshooting their visitors as they returned to Rio Tinto Stadium to reach 30 goals for the season overall. With Reno coming to visit, next Monday night could bring one of the most entertaining games of the season at Rio Tinto Stadium.

2. San Antonio FC (46pts)

Last Week: D 0-0 at OKC Energy FC

San Antonio FC fell short of a sixth consecutive road victory, but did maintain its undefeated record and extend its shutout streak to seven games. Finding a way to get the attack clicking into gear has to be a priority, though, with the Monarchs now two points ahead in the standings and the side having scored only twice in its past five league games.

3. Charleston Battery (39pts)

Last Week: W 1-0 vs. Richmond Kickers

The Battery had their backs against the wall at times in the second half against the Kickers, but despite being outshot 11-3 after the break the hosts made Justin Portillo’s first-half penalty kick hold up at MUSC Health Stadium. Charleston is now undefeated in its past eight games against Richmond, and has a four-point lead for the moment at the top of the East.