NASL Minnesota United FC

Minnesota Battles Vancouver to Close out Simple Invitational

February 27, 2016 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Minnesota United FC News Release


Minnesota United FC vs. the Vancouver Whitecaps at Simple Invitational
Minnesota United FC vs. the Vancouver Whitecaps at Simple Invitational
(Minnesota United FC)

PORTLAND, Ore. - Minnesota United ended the Simple Invitational with a spirited second half performance despite falling to the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-1. A surge of possession and offensive pressure in the final 45 minutes ended the Loons' rocky preseason start on a high note, as the team showed progress as it prepares for the 2016 NASL season.

"The lads improved leaps and bounds from game one to game three," said United Head Coach Carl Craig. "The way we went about our business, particularly when we went down to ten men, was outstanding. To see the game out, possess, and create chance was encouraging to see and I'm pleased we are moving forward."

United came out strong in the opening minutes of the game, repelling the Whitecaps attacks and making moves of its own. The Loons were able to penetrate deep into enemy territory down the flanks, but struggled to make connections in the Vancouver penalty area.

Possession was hard to come by for Minnesota, as Vancouver held the ball for much of the half. This kept United on its heels, not allowing it get build much momentum. The Whitecaps were able to breakthrough in the 13th minute following a misplaced clearance that fell to the feet of Pedro Morales, who placed a low shot into the bottom corner of the net.

Set pieces cost United late in the first half, as a foul at the top of box gave the Whitecaps a golden opportunity at goal. An impressive dive allowed goalkeeper Sammy Ndjock to parry the ball onto the post, but Vancouver's Octavio Rivero was able to head in the rebound to double his team's lead. Another poor foul gave Vancouver a late penalty kick that was easily converted by Morales to get his brace.

The opening minutes of the second half showed signs of progress as Minnesota came out fighting once again. However, the tables seemed to turn after defender Kevin Venegas was sent off in the 48th minute for a retaliatory kick at a Vancouver player after getting fouled. It was Venegas' second ejection of the tournament, after getting sent off in the game against Portland last Sunday.

Despite being a man down, Minnesota was able to capitalize by scoring on the ensuing free kick. A curled in ball was deflected by defender Tiago Calvano. The ball fell in front of Damian Lowe, on trial with Minnesota, who lunged forward to poke the ball past Whitecaps keeper David Ousted and reduce the deficit to two goals.

Following the goal Minnesota started to show signs of its well know attacking play. The Loons put heavy pressure on the Whitecaps defense and also held a good share of possession in the second half. The ball seemed to bounce in Minnesota's favor and the player's confidence rose as the team looked very comfortable and commanding while in possession.

The field opened up even more after Vancouver's Kainz Froese received his second yellow card, leaving both teams with ten players each.

A pair of late chances nearly put Minnesota back in the match. Midfielder Lance Laing showcased his speed and power with an excellent run and powerful shot that was expertly held by Ousted, as Christian Ramirez was waiting to pounce on any rebound. The second came from Jamie Watson - who returned after an ACL tear ended his season early last year - a rocket blast from the top of the box that came from an excellent passing sequence. The shot, unfortunately, went straight to a waiting Ousted, but Minnesota showed it had not given up on the match.

On the other end of the pitch, Ndjock pulled off a couple of spectacular saves to keep the scoreline at 3-1.

Despite ending the Simple Invitational at 0-0-3, Minnesota showed progress and the tournament advanced despite facing adversity. The team will continue to prepare for its NASL season opener on April 2nd against the Carolina RailHawks. United will play its first home match of the 2016 season on April 16th, hosting the Fort Lauderdale Strikers at NSC Stadium in Blaine.

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Minnesota United FC vs. the Vancouver Whitecaps at Simple Invitational
Minnesota United FC vs. the Vancouver Whitecaps at Simple Invitational
   



North American Soccer League Stories from February 27, 2016


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