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Surging Minnesota United Searching for Morevs. Timbers
Minnesota United is looking to extend their four- game unbeaten streak as they host the Portland Timbers on Saturday night in Saint Paul, Minn. Minnesota( 6-2-3, 21 points) sits in second place in the Western Conference, four points behind Real Salt Lake, which has played two more matches than the Loons.
Minnesota United’s Recent Performance
Unbeaten Streak and Recent Draw
Minnesota kept their unbeaten streak alive with a 2- 2 draw against the visiting Los Angeles Galaxy on Wednesday night. The run began with a 3- 0 win at Charlotte FC and included 2- 1 victories over Sporting Kansas City and Atlanta United. Midfielder Kervin Arriaga scored on a title off a corner kick by Joseph Rosales in the 80th minute to secure the draw for the Loons.
” The first half was a really good performance, I suppose the most complete performance we have had since I have been here,” said interim head trainer Eric Ramsay, who made his Minnesota debut with a 2- 0 win over Los Angeles FC on March 16.” I am pleased we haven’t lost the game. I am pleased we have got a point. But the overriding feeling in the dressing room and amongst the staff is frustration.”
Portland Timbers’ Recent Performance
Ending the Winless Streak
The Timbers’ locker room had a fully different vibe on Wednesday after Portland( 3-6-4, 13 points) rallied to master the San Jose Earthquakes 4- 2, snapping a nine- game winless streak. Portland was booed off the field at halftime after falling behind 2- 0, but they scored four goals in a 26- minute span of the second half.
Forward Jonathan Rodriguez scored twice after midfielder Evander started the comeback with a penalty goal in the 74th minute, following San Jose’s Bruno Wilson entering a red card. Forward Felipe Mora scored the game– winner on another penalty kick in the 90th minute. This was Portland’s first win since a 2- 1 victory at New York FC on March 9.
” After the first half, going into the locker room we heard some boos,” Evander said.” I suppose we all had the same feeling. We need to change this now or we are going to stay like this forever.”
Key Players and Performances
Minnesota United
Kervin Arriaga’s header goal against the Galaxy and Joseph Rosales’ help highlight the crucial contributions for Minnesota. The Loons’ capability to maintain their unbeaten streak will rely on continued performances from these players.
Portland Timbers
Jonathan Rodriguez’s brace and Felipe Mora’s game- winning penalty kick were critical in ending Portland’s winless streak. Evander’s part in sparking the comeback with a penalty goal emphasizes his significance to the team’s attacking strategy.
Future Implications
Momentum and Playoff Positioning
Minnesota aims to maintain their unbeaten streak and solidify their position near the top of the Western Conference standings. Meanwhile, Portland looks to make on their recent win and climb out of the lower ranks of the conference.
Conclusion
As Minnesota United and the Portland Timbers prepare for their clash, both teams are eager to build on recent performances and secure critical points. With crucial players stepping up and high stakes on the line, this match promises to be an intense and competitive encounter.
