United FC gameday

7 P.M. VS. N.Y. COSMOS • NATIONAL SPORTS CENTER, BLAINE • CH. 45

Preview: Both second-place Minnesota United FC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies must win Saturday to deny undefeated New York's bid to clinch the spring season championship. A victory or draw would make it nearly impossible for the Cosmos to be overtaken.

United FC at a glance: Eager to redeem themselves after losing at St. Louis by shootout in the U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, the Loons (3-1-3) must solve the Cosmos. Since joining the North American Soccer League in the 2013 fall season, New York has played Minnesota five times, recording three victories and two draws. The Loons ride a three-match winning streak against NASL opponents and hope for a fourth consecutive sellout crowd. Tiago Calvano, Miguel Ibarra and Pablo Campos scored as Minnesota defeated Jacksonville 3-2 last Saturday.

New York at a glance: The Cosmos (5-0-3) can lock up the spring title Saturday by grabbing all three points at Minnesota, coupled with a Tampa Bay loss or tie. Last Saturday the Cosmos defeated defending NASL champion San Antonio 3-0. All three of New York's draws have come on the road. The Cosmos have allowed only five goals this year in league play, fewest in the NASL. Cosmos goalkeeper Jimmy Maurer's 21 saves lead the league. Seven Cosmos have scored this season. Raúl Blanco and Leo Fernandes share the team lead with three goals.

David La Vaque