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NASL Minnesota United FC

Minnesota United Comes from Behind for Key Road Victory over Tampa Bay

August 22, 2015 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Minnesota United FC News Release


ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - Minnesota United continued its winning ways on Saturday night, picking up its second straight win on the road with a 3-1 result over the Tampa Bay Rowdies. After falling behind, United battled back with goals coming from Ibson, Justin Davis, and Daniel Mendes to secure three points.

"I was really proud of the way the guys played," said United Head Coach Manny Lagos. "They came into a tough environment here in Tampa Bay and were able to persevere after going behind early. They way we played in the second half was key to the win tonight."

Both teams battled the heat and each other to gain an early advantage in the match. Tough defense limited the offensive chances for Minnesota. United thought it had the early goal from Christian Ramirez, but his volleyed shot hit the upright after beating the goalkeeper.

The Rowdies were able to break through on the other end of the pitch on a quick counterattack. Georgi Hristov, the NASL assists leader, played a pass off Juan Guerra near the top of the penalty area. Guerra managed to get the ball past a diving United defender and into the net to take the lead.

Only eight minutes later, the Loons answered back, thanks to a quick series of passes. Kalif Alhassan threaded the needle to find Ibson just inside the penalty area. Ibson put a perfectly placed shot past the hands of the Rowdies keeper to get his side on the board.

United was able to carry the momentum into the second half and put pressure on the Tampa Bay goal. Minnesota's defense had to withstand a barrage from the Rowdies as well, but the Loons were able to catch the home team off guard. A steal by Juliano Vicentini presented a golden opportunity for Minnesota, who had the advantage on the counterattack. Davis made a perfectly timed run to reach a ball from Ibson to have a break on goal that he smartly finished to take the lead for Minnesota.

Minnesota's defense continued to hold strong as Tampa Bay pushed many players up the field to try to get a late equalizer. This exposed the Rowdies' defense and gave Minnesota another three-on-two opportunity in stoppage time. Mendes received the ball uncontested from Davis and easily slotted the ball past Matt Pickens to ensure victory for United.

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