Heading into this week’s against Tampa Bay, the Loons had a simple task. Win out and take the NASL spring title. Thats a lot easier said than done.

Saturday night, the Loon were shut out at home by Tampa Bay 2-0. It marks the first time Minnesota United has fallen at home since the start of the season. This season the Loons have also been stout defensively at NSC, not allowing any goals.

Most of the first half the score remained level. Joe Cole opened up the door right before halftime with a header off an assist from Kalif Alhassan. Cole gave the side troubles all night, scoring and contributing to Eric Avila’s goal in the 47’ minute.

Minnesota United owned the opportunity creation game taking 11 shots, 7 of which came from inside box. But ball movement was a problem as the Loons turned it over 21 times.

For a second straight week, the Loons have been flat coming out the gate. Last week, Indy took a first half lead before United responded. This week, more of the same.

“Two losses in a row is disappointing of course, but I think it’s the matter in which we lost that is more disappointing. We proved last week if we strolled around and don’t control the ball and give out maximum effort we’ll get undone and it happened again today.” Carl Craig explained after the game.

Next match for the Loons is a US Open match against Saint Louis FC in St. Louis.