Gameday preview: United at Edmonton

August 31, 2014 at 5:00AM
Minnesota United FC's Christian Ramirez, Daniel Mendes and Aaron Pitchkolan celebrated a goal earlier this season.
Minnesota United FC's Christian Ramirez, Daniel Mendes and Aaron Pitchkolan celebrated a goal earlier this season. (Brian Stensaas — DML - Star Tribune Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

united gameday

3 P.M. at edmonton • clarke stadium • watch at nasl.com

Preview: Though holding a man advantage and facing a backup goalkeeper from the eighth minute on, Minnesota only managed a 1-1 tie at New York last week. United (5-0-2) remains unbeaten in its past 11 league matches, but its performance in New York drew criticism from fans.

United FC at a glance: The Loons lead the North American Soccer League in both goals scored (16) and fewest goals allowed (six). Including the spring season, United has conceded 11 of 15 goals against in the second half of matches and another goal in first-half stoppage time. Minnesota must maintain defensive focus and organization for the full 90 minutes.

Edmonton at a glance: The Eddies are enjoying a 3-1-1 surge in their last five matches, losing only at Minnesota. "We had a terrific game against them already in the fall season, and we were unfortunate to not earn a draw," coach Colin Miller said. Miller moved defender Lance Laing up to outside midfield, and Laing responded with three goals in his past three matches.

David La Vaque

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Renée Jones Schneider/The Minnesota Star Tribune

The Gophers were outscored 5-0 at even strength and were outshot 46-21 by the Buckeyes.

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