United Sting Scorpions in Statement Game to Secure Top Spot in NASL Standings
September 20, 2014 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Minnesota United FC News Release
San Antonio, TX. (Saturday, September 20th, 2014) -- Minnesota United put on an impressive display on both sides of the field in a 2-0 victory over the San Antonio Scorpions that secured United the top spot in the Fall and Combined NASL Standings. A pair of goals from Miguel Ibarra and a stunning goaltending display by Matt VanOekel led Minnesota to come away with three crucial points.
"I think we did a great job of managing the game defensively and keeping our shape," said United Head Coach Manny Lagos. "I still think we could've possessed the ball a bit better, but we really got back in numbers and made it hard for San Antonio to create chances."
After trading possession early on, United finally caught a break and was able to take advantage of the Scorpions defense. Daniel Mendes stole the ball for Minnesota by muscling a defender out of position then passed back to Aaron Pitchkolan. Pitchkolan left the ball for Greg Jordan who then placed a perfectly weighted through ball in for midfielder Miguel Ibarra. Ibarra dribbled in on goal and put a shot across frame to give Minnesota the 1-0 lead in the 22nd minute.
Ibarra doubled his total and Minnesota's lead in the second half by showcasing his speed against the Scorpions defense. Pitckolan played a long ball from the Minnesota penalty area down the field that found Ibarra breaking through two defenders. The speedy midfielder dribbled around Scorpions goalkeeper Josh Saunders and passed the ball into the empty net to secure the win for United.
Though the offense was a big part of the game tonight, solid defending and top-notch goalkeeping kept United in a comfortable position throughout the match. Goalkeeper Matt VanOekel was called upon to make several acrobatic saves to keep United in on top, and his defenders were able to make the Minnesota keeper's job a little easier by providing key clearances in the box.
United will travel to Ottawa to play its final match in Canada for the season. Only three home games remain for Minnesota, who returns to NSC Stadium on October 4th. Get your tickets now to become a part of the playoff presale. Call 763.4SOCCER or visit MNUnitedFC.com/tickets to get your seats today!
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North American Soccer League Stories from September 20, 2014
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- United Sting Scorpions in Statement Game to Secure Top Spot in NASL Standings - Minnesota United FC
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- Key Win Keeps Strikers in Postseason Hunt - Fort Lauderdale Strikers
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