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NASL Minnesota United FC

Minnesota United and San Antonio Draw 2-2 in Front of Record Crowd of 9,233

April 25, 2015 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Minnesota United FC News Release


BLAINE, Minn. (Saturday, April 25th, 2015) -- Minnesota United tied the San Antonio Scorpions 2-2 in front of a sellout and franchise record crowd of 9,233 at the National Sports Center in Blaine. Goals from Pablo Campos and Christian Ramirez put United on top, but a late penalty leveled the match for the Scorpions.

"It's a tough result to take when we play well and battle like we did tonight," said United Head Coach Manny Lagos. "I was really proud of the guys to come back after going down early. There are some moments that we want to take back, but I hope the guys can walk off with their heads high because they played well."

The first half started off with United having the advantage, but a long distance free kick turned the tide. Zourab Tsiskaridze caught United goalkeeper Sammy Ndjock off his line with a free kick from the Scorpions' half that sailed into the net over Ndjock. Following the goal, Minnesota's offense come to life as it poured on the pressure.

Minnesota opened its 2015 scoring tally in the 34th minute in spectacular fashion. Midfielder Miguel Ibarra made a run down the left edge of the penalty area, playing a ball in the air across the box. Pablo Campos rose and met the ball with his head, powering it into the back of the net to level the match.

"The first one is always the toughest," said Ramirez. "The floodgates are open now and it's nice to get back on track."

Minnesota continued its offensive push throughout the half, putting together several offensive chances in the final minutes of the half.

The Loons continued to press in the second and were denied several chances including a no-call in the penalty area. United got justice in the 58th as they received a penalty kick after Jonny Steele was hauled down in the box. Christian Ramirez stepped up to the spot and calmly slotted home the penalty to make it 2-1 in favor of Minnesota.

Penalties would make the difference late in the game as San Antonio looked for a late equalizer. Ndjock rushed out to punch away a ball intended for Marvin Chavez. Ndjock's punch got the ball but also collided with Chavez' head, dropping the Scorpion midfielder to the ground and the referee pointed to the penalty spot. Rafael Castillo stepped up and beat Ndjock to make it 2-2 in the 90th minute. Despite a late push from Minnesota, the match would end in a draw.

Minnesota travels north to face FC Edmonton on Sunday, May 3rd at 3 p.m. CT. United returns to NSC Stadium on May 9th to host the Atlanta Silverbacks. Get your seats today by calling 763.4SOCCER or visiting MNUnitedFC.com/tickets.

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