Football Season Review

Minnesota United enjoyed their best season in their short stint as an MLS franchise, making it to the playoffs on the third time of asking only to fall at the first hurdle itself, losing out to LA Galaxy in the knockout round. Minnesota had focused on bolstering their midfield and defensive options during the off-season and the new arrivals took their time to settle down. Consequently the Loons were off to an inconsistent start, putting in a number of eye catching displays but also falling to convincing defeats. A solid run of form midway through the season though propelled Minnesota to as high as second in the Western Conference and they looked to be holding on to that place despite a dip in form in the final weeks only to pick up just one point from their final two games to finish in the fourth place, losing out to LA in the first knockout round. The season saw some of the regular players fall out of favor with Shuttleworth losing his place in the goal to Vito Mannone while Miguel Ibarra had to settle for a rotational spot and Francisco Calvo was traded in May. While the new signings took their time to settle down, they did put up consistent displays with Jan Gregus especially proving to be key at both ends of the pitch, bagging eight assists and also chipping in with two goals. Angelo Rodriguez did not emerge as the reliable scorer that Heath was hoping for and, while Mason Toye did enjoy a breakthrough campaign, Minnesota will hope to recruit a better option up front. With Carlos Quintero also exiting the club, Heath will need to rebuild his offense if Minnesota hope for a repeat of the campaign next season.

Player of the Season: Jan Gregus