Minnesota’s match at Edmonton was unusual in that both teams are in playoff positions in the combined NASL standings. Edmonton occupied the #3 seed and Minnesota is fighting off expansion Rayo OKC for the last spot. However, the result was anything but unusual as Edmonton was able to impose its style of play upon the Loons and earn a 1-0 victory.
Minnesota made some personnel changes from its last match. Sammy Ndjock returned to the field for Minnesota after a four-game absence, and the void at right back due to Venegas’s injury was filled by Jeb Brovsky. With experienced players, the roster offered hope of turning around Minnesota’s recent struggles.
The first half opened up brightly for the Loons, with several chances on goal. But the game quickly regressed to historical norms with the Eddies taking the early lead in fouls conceded. Edmonton’s aggressive style and high press frustrated Minnesota. And that, along with the four fouls suffered in the first 20 minutes, possibly led to Ibson drawing a yellow card for simulation in the box.
Each team headed into the half with reason for optimism. But that optimism was quickly dashed in the 46th minute.
Just as the second half was getting started, Edmonton put pressure on Minnesota. An attack down the left side (Minnesota’s right) led to 10 Edmonton touches in and around the 18 yard box, resulting in the opening goal of the match.
After the goal, the Eddies turned to what they do best – shut down opposing attacks. The passing chart for Minnesota passes into the final third shows how successful Edmonton was at preventing threats.
As a result, Edmonton (and former Minnesota) keeper Matt VanOekel added another clean sheet, keeping his NASL lead in the category. Although, to be fair, he benefited from two goal-line clearances from his teammates. But Edmonton shutting out an opponent in 2016 is no fluke.
Minnesota now turns its attention to the upcoming home match this Wednesday against the Fort Lauderdale Strikers (locally available on Channel 29 at 7pm) and the stretch run in the fall season.
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