Last week the Minnesota United FC put away a struggling Jacksonville Armada FC side 2-0. Fighting to stay atop the NASL standings, the Loons struggled mightily in Indianapolis this week falling 4-2 to the Eleven. United had several opportunities and a 1-0 halftime deficit could of been much worse. Even after a goal from Eleven midfielder Omar Gordon in the 48’ min increased the deficit to 2-0, the Loons continued to press.

At the 54th minute mark Stephan Pinho upper left corner goal brought Minnesota United within 1. Not too long after Damion Lowe scored off a cross from Kevin Venegas. But the Eleven would have the last say, scoring 2 more goals ( Justin Braun and Nicki Paterson) to take 3 points away from the NASL leader. Now after a win over Carolina at home, Edmonton FC now holds the top spot in the table. The Loons currently sit in a 3 way point wise, but own the goal differential tie breaker bringing them to the 2nd place spot.

Consistency continues to plague the Loons, keeping them from owning the top spot so far in the spring half of the 2016 season. This week represented a great opportunity for the squad to increase there lead by 2 points.For the most part Minnesota United dominated possession (62/38) but the turf made it hard for the side to control the ball as Indy recorded 24 interceptions. Heading into their home match with the Tampa Bay Rowdies, the Loons now have work to do to get back into that top spot. With Carolina and Indy both pacing closely behind the road gets a little bit more complicated.

On the upside the Loons offensive attack continues to lead the league in goals with 13.  Both Damien Lowe and Stéfano Pinho did well picking up the scoring load as striker Christian Ramirez was quiet this game. But defensively there is more work to do. Look for United to add defensive depth as the summer transfer window quickly approaches. If the Loons are to compete for deep into the season, those need will have to be addressed rather quickly.