united gameday

6:30 P.M. VS. ATLANTA • ATLANTA SILVERBACKS PARK

Watch: Subscription web stream at www.nasl.com/nasl-live.

Preview: The NASL spring season champions will return to the fall season after an exhibition stint to take on Atlanta and new coach Jason Smith.

United FC at a glance: The Loons made a quick turnaround last week, beating league rival Carolina 1-0 on July 17 and two days later defeating English Premier League side Swansea City 2-0 before a record sellout crowd in Blaine. Defender Justin Davis and midfielder Greg Jordan scored in the friendly, which served as preseason training for the Swans. The game marked the first time an English team had played against a Minnesota team, and in the state.

Atlanta Silverbacks at a glance: The Silverbacks will get a new but familiar face leading them against United. Smith coached the Silverbacks from 2005-08. Former coach Eric Wynalda will remain technical director of the club. In Wynalda's last match at the helm, Atlanta defeated FC Edmonton 1-0 at home on a goal from midfielder Pablo Cruz. Atlanta placed eighth in the spring season standings and lost to United 2-1.

MEGAN RYAN