Before a raucous crowd at Michael Carroll Stadium, Indy Elven secured 3 points in a 1-0 win over Minnesota United. If you can recall United’s last visit to Indiana didn’t end well as the side fell 4-2.
Early on, the Loons gained momuntum controlling the ball on offense, and even had great opportunities early on. J.C. Banks and Ramirez lead the attack. Carrying over from last week’s match, Minnesota United continued to press in the attacking third.
Ramirez had a crucial free opportunity in the 38th minute, but Jon Busch came up with the save. In total, the Loons had 12 shots with on 5 being on target. Busch definitely worked for the clean sheet this match.
The game deciding goal came from Dylan Mares in the 78th minute, his first of the fall season, 8th of the 2016 combined campaign. Indy only managed to take 7 shots on goal, but were more efficient with 4 shots on target. The side also dominated the possession battle controlling the ball throughout. That put the Loons defense at a disadvantage, as there were already missing center midfield Colin Falvey.
The addition of J.C. Banks to the lineup at the attacking midfield position has given the Minnesota United FC attack a nice spark on the counter. He recorded 3 shots, all coming inside the box.
Next week Minnesota United will host Indy in a reverse fixture matchup at NCS Stadium next Saturday. The Eleven’s last visit to Minnesota in September 2015, resulted in a 1-0 Loon win.
