United FC gameday
7 P.M. vs. new york • Nsc stadium • Ch. 45
Preview: With seven matches left before the postseason, Minnesota (7-2-4) is tied for first in the fall season standings with Ottawa and trails New York by three points in the combined standings. A victory Saturday is critical for keeping the Loons' place in the four-team playoffs.
United FC at a glance: Now would be an opportune moment for Minnesota — 0-4-3 vs. the Cosmos — to take its first victory in franchise history against New York. The Loons are riding a seven-match unbeaten streak (5-0-2). "You have two teams that are pushing each other to get to the top of the table — very similar to the spring season — it's a big game for both teams," Minnesota coach Manny Lagos said. "The hype is justified. Ultimately it's not the last game of the year, but it definitely has meaning."
New York at a glance: If the spring season champs can maintain their three-point edge over Minnesota for the top spot in the combined standings, they will lock up home-field advantage throughout the championship. New York (6-2-4) is coming off a 1-0 victory against Jacksonville last Saturday on a goal by Raul in the 74th minute. Back in May, Raul scored in the 90th minute at Minnesota to salvage a 1-1 draw.
David La Vaque
