Preview: Minnesota United (10-11-7) has won just one of its past nine matches but is still clinging to fourth place, with 37 points, and a playoff spot in the North American Soccer League combined standings by virtue of goal differential. The Loons' perch is precarious. They have played one more game than Tampa Bay, also with 37 points, and Miami, with 36 points. Puerto Rico (4-6-8), which began play in the fall season, comes into the home match on a three-game winning streak that followed three consecutive draws.
United nemesis: The Loons broke a four-game losing streak in a 2-2 draw Wednesday at Tampa Bay. But a familiar nemesis — an inability to close out late games — cost them two valuable points. United surrendered the lead twice, conceding a sixth goal in the 80th minute or later in the past four games.
Last time: United and Puerto Rico played to a 1-1 draw on Aug. 3 at the National Sports Center in Blaine. The Loons have won just twice in 12 matches since then, losing six and tying four.
Injuries: The Loons' Christian Ramirez, who scored his NASL-leading 16th goal against Tampa Bay, will miss the Puerto Rico match because of a high ankle sprain.
PAUL KLAUDA
