News in Brief: MNUFC Staff Grades, 2019 U.S. Open Cup Draw, KJ Branded profile and More

MNUFC CEO Chris Wright gives passing grade to Lagos and Heath

As the 2018 MLS season draws to a close for the non-playoff bound MNUFC, Minnesota United CEO Chris Wright assessed the work of president Manny Lagos and coach Adrian Heath. Despite 20-34-9 record in nearly two seasons of MLS play, CEO Wright has stated his belief that both Lagos and Heath have lived up to expectations to this point. Wright also spoke of a potential USL affiliate and gave an update on the progress being made with Allianz Field.

FC Minnesota learn opponent for second qualifying round of 2019 U.S. Open Cup

FC Minnesota will travel to St. Louis, MO to face FC Maritsa on October 20th in the second qualifying round of the 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. FC Minnesota’s game is one of 28 to take place on October 20-21 in this qualifying round of the competition.

Kevin Joseph and KJ Branded’s work goes beyond Minnesota roots

Although the design work of KJ Branded has roots in Minnesota and his designs have a place in the local soccer culture, Kevin’s design work has expanded to a national level over the years. KJ Branded’s work is profiled, and includes insight from the designer on his work for various clients.

Houston Dynamo win 2018 U.S. Open Cup Champions

The Houston Dynamo defeated the visiting Philadelphia Union 3-0 on Wednesday to win the 2018 U.S. Open Cup. Two first half goals from Dynamo forward Mauro Manotas gave the Dynamo a commanding lead going into the halftime break. An Auston Trusty own-goal in the 65th minute sealed the Union’s fate. The result gave the Dynamo their first cup title, while the Union have now been runners-up three times in their history.

MLS midweek roundup

In the lone midweek MLS game, NYCFC defeated the Chicago Fire 2-0 at Yankee Stadium. Two goals in quick succession to open the second half, the first from Alexander Ring in the 47th minute and the second from David Villa in the 51st, gave NYCFC the victory. NYCFC clinched a playoff spot with the win.

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