Television: 7 p.m. Saturday, Ch. 29
Preview: The Loons (3-1-2) gave up a bad goal early in Wednesday night's game with Puerto Rico and, after a strong second half, came away from a 1-1 draw believing they blew a chance for three points. That was on the heels of another draw with Rayo OKC in which they gave up the tying goal in the final moments of stoppage time. Miami (2-1-2) comes in with a three-game unbeaten streak, capped by a 2-1 victory last Saturday over Indy Eleven, the fall season points co-leader.
Last time: United defeated Miami 3-1 on June 11 in Blaine in the last game of the spring season. After a tightly contested scoreless first half, the Loons scored twice early in the second half and fought off a Miami comeback with a late goal. The teams meet again in Miami on Aug. 27.
Players to watch: United FC forward Christian Ramirez was named North American Soccer League player of the month for July, when he scored seven of his league-leading 12 goals. Miami's Jaime Chavez, who scored in the loss to Minnesota, has three goals in the past three games. This match also marks the return of former United players Jonny Steele and Pablo Campos.
Numbers: Minnesota, with 11 points, is in fifth place in the fall season standings, two points back of first. Miami, which has played one fewer game, has eight points. United has a five-game unbeaten streak at home.
Injuries: The Loons' Kevin Venegas, who missed the last two matches, will be out again. Stefano Pinho, who missed the Rayo OKC match with an injury and did not play against Puerto Rico, is probable.
PAUL KLAUDA
