After securing a crucial win against Tampa, Minnesota United has another task at hand today versus Jacksonville. The Loons were successful at snapping a 2 games skid, but a win in Florida will push the side back into contention for the spring title.
Jacksonville comes into the game in decent form earning 5 points over there last 3 matches. Though the Armada still sit in 9th place on the table. Forward Keita Alhassane will lead the attack for the Armanda, and currently has 3 goals on the season. Armada’s struggles so far have been converting goal scoring opportunities. The side has a 7.5% goal conversion rate, but are 3rd in the league in shots attempted.
On the other side United’s Christian Ramirez continues his scoring streak, and looks create havoc for Jacksonville’s back four. The Loons have an excellent opportunity to expose a weak Armanda’s defence. Ben Speas and Ramirez continue to be a deadly combination but will need help on the back end to continue progressing forward.
The Loons defense has been a sore spots so far this fall. A clean sheet against Tampa on Wednesday certainly helped bolster confidence but the side needs a solid follow up performance to stay in form. Loon’s goalkeeper Is still tied for 3rd in the NASL with 6 clean sheets. Ibson produced last match with 6 interceptions, and will need be the anchor above the back four if the United wants to secure 3 points.
