In this week’s recap of Minnesotans playing professionally: Miller looks to continue his run of starts into the playoffs while Bunbury, Cropper, and Mallace struggle to get time.
Eric Miller and the Colorado Rapids clinched their spot in the MLS Playoffs this past weekend with a 1-0 win against the Portland Timbers. Miller started for the 19th time this season and went the full 90 at right back. It was a quiet outing for the most part for Miller, who finished the game with three clearances, two recoveries, and one tackle to help earn the shutout and extend the Rapids undefeated home record this season.
A double game week for the Montreal Impact gave Calum Mallace two short appearances. On Wednesday, Mallace made his first appearance in three weeks when came on in the 63rd minute in a 3-1 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes. Mallace didn’t see much of the ball — attempting only six passes — but he did put in a bit of defensive work tallying one clearance, one interception, and a pair of recoveries.
On Saturday, Mallace again entered in the second half as the Impact defeated Orlando City SC 1-0, eliminating Orlando from the playoffs. Once again Mallace didn’t see much of the ball, but he did finish with two clearances and two recoveries to help keep the shutout.
Mukwelle Akale started for Villarreal C, but did not finish the game, in a 1-1 draw with Crevillente. Villarreal found themselves down a goal in the 5th minute and struggled to level the game. Things didn’t get easier when one of their players was sent off in the 87th minute, but in the 95th minute Villarreal was awarded a free kick at the top of the box and sent it directly into the back of the net.
Teal Bunbury was an unused substitute in the New England Revolution’s 3-1 win over Sporting Kansas City while Cody Cropper was left off the game day roster.
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