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NASL Minnesota United FC

Minnesota United Soars Early and Falls 2-1 Late to New York

August 5, 2015 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Minnesota United FC News Release


Minnesota United vs. New York Cosmos
Minnesota United vs. New York Cosmos
(Minnesota United FC)

NEW YORK, NY. (Wednesday, August 5th, 2015) -- Minnesota United got out in front early against the New York Cosmos on Wednesday night, but were unable to hold the lead, falling 2-1 after 90 minutes. United remains tied for third in the NASL Fall Standings and tied for fourth in the Combined Standings.

The 2014 Golden Boot winner, Ramirez extended his scoring streak to five straight games early in the match with a first time touch off a corner. Kalif Alhassan played a cross into the penalty area, finding Daniel Mendes. Mendes flicked the ball perfectly with his head to the back post where Ramirez finished it off to take the early lead for United.

The Cosmos answered back just five minutes later on a counterattacking play. Andres Flores played a low cross through the penalty area into open space where Walter Restrepo was running to finish with a low driven shot to tie the match at 1-1.

A first half injury to defender Kevin Venegas who took a nasty spill on the sidelines forced Minnesota to make an early substitution, altering the game plan and limiting late tactical changes for United.

United decided to come out in the second half with a very offensive mindset, looking to generate offense early to reclaim the lead. Goalkeeper Mitch Hildebrandt championed the defensive end of the pitch for Minnesota, making several acrobatic key saves to keep Minnesota in the match.

New York was able to break through on a corner with 15 minutes remaining. Minnesota's defense cleared the initial cross, but Hunter Freeman got the ball back for his side. Freeman's blasted shot from distance found the top corner of the net, leaving Hildebrandt no chance of a save and giving the Cosmos a 2-1 lead.

Minnesota rallied late, pushing men forward and playing crosses in from either flank trying to get a late equalizer like last week in Jacksonville. Despite their best efforts, the Loons were unable to level the score, ending the team's four-match unbeaten streak.

United returns home this Saturday, August 8th to host FC Edmonton for the first time this year. Be a part of the huge crowd at NSC Stadium by getting your seats today. Call 763.4SOCCER or visit MNUnitedFC.com/tickets to get your tickets today.

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Minnesota United vs. New York Cosmos
Minnesota United vs. New York Cosmos
   



North American Soccer League Stories from August 5, 2015


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