NASL Minnesota United FC

Minnesota United and FC Edmonton Battle to Intense 1-1 Draw

Published on August 8, 2015 under North American Soccer League (NASL)
Minnesota United FC News Release


BLAINE, Minn. - In a heated affair in front of 9,077, Minnesota United fought to a 1-1 draw with rival FC Edmonton. A record-breaking goal for Christian Ramirez put United in front early in the second half, but Edmonton scored late in the match to steal a point from the Loons.

"It was a tough result for us," said United Head Coach Manny Lagos. "It was a great game, particularly the second half. Both teams really wanted to get the win and left everything out on the field."

Minnesota dominated possession in the first half, controlling the pace of the game as well as having the majority of the chances. Midfielder Juliano Vicentini had several excellent chances for Minnesota early on, barely missing the mark to put United on the board.

Edmonton struggled to get near the United goal, with its best chance coming just before halftime. The Eddies had a free kick on the edge of the Minnesota penalty area that midfielder Lance Laing drove toward the edge of the wall. Minnesota's Greg Jordan threw his body out for a heroic block to keep the match level at half time.

United continued the pressure right away after halftime, making a potent run into the Edmonton penalty area where Yago was taken down to earn a penalty. Forward Christian Ramirez stepped up to the spot and slotted home the ball to score his 27th career league goal for Minnesota, a new club record.

Not letting up on its opponent, Minnesota bombarded the Edmonton goal, setting up chances at point-blank range. Only a stout Edmonton defense kept United from putting in a quick second goal.

Mitch Hildebrandt was once again a key factor for United in this match. He was called upon to make several acrobatic saves throughout the match as well as to come out of his goal to prevent breakaway chances.

Edmonton finally broke through late in the second half off a quick counterattack. Midfielder Lance Laing played a low cross through the penalty area that found forward Tomi Ameobi just outside the United goal where he lunged forward to tap home the equalizer.

"We've struggled to keep the lead once we get one," continued Lagos. "Dropping points that way, especially at home, is keeping us from going from a good team to a great team. Our next step is to work on playing better after we get those leads and close out games."

Both teams battled in the final minutes to try to claim a late winning goal. Minnesota caused chaos in front of the Eddies' net, but couldn't put the finishing touch on the match, settling for the draw.

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North American Soccer League Stories from August 8, 2015


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