After the game began with no goals in the first half, Minnesota United FC left Oklahoma City with a 2-2 draw thanks to a wild second half and added time. After Justin Davis equalized and Christian Ramirez gave Minnesota the lead in the 92nd minute, Rayo OKC’s Futty Danso scored at the death to leave the teams level on the night.
A New Look Lineup for Minnesota
With injuries, a questionable pitch, and a three-game week ahead, some of Minnesota’s substitutes got more time on the pitch. Summer-signing Jack Blake started at defensive midfield alongside Jeb Brovsky. Coming off a brilliant league debut against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers, Ish Jome made his first career start. J.C. Banks continued his strong play at the attacking midfielder position, and Damion Lowe started at right back in place of the injured Kevin Venegas.
Rayo OKC, a Counter-Attacking Team
Rayo OKC has had a great start to the fall campaign, starting the game in first place in NASL, albeit with two extra games played over Minnesota United FC. Much like Ottawa Fury FC last year, Rayo OKC have been able to play organized deep and rely on converting on a counter attacks or free kicks.
Sandoval’s Header Beats Ceus
It would be a free kick from 40 yards out in the 60th minute that would put Rayo OKC on the board first. After taking a couple of deflections, Devon Sandoval headed into the net. Steward Ceus was able to get a hand on the ball but couldn’t keep it out.
Davis Levels the Score at One Apiece
Minnesota would not be deterred by going down a goal. In the 71st minute, Danny Cruz sent a high, looping cross to the far post. Justin Davis rose above his marker and his header from an impossible angle managed to beat the keeper.
Ramirez Scores in Added Time
Two minutes into stoppage time, Minnesota United FC thought they had found a way to steal three points on the road. A perfectly threaded pass by late-game substitute Ibson put Ramirez in the position to beat the keeper and give Minnesota a 2-1 lead.
Danzo Evens the Score
A minute later, Rayo OKC broke Minnesota fans’ hearts with an equalizer. A long, speculative ball into the box would be headed in by Futty Danso. With his back to the goal, Danso’s arching header looped past Ceus, earning each team one point in the standings on the night.
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