Football Season Review

Minnesota United enjoyed another successful season, qualifying to the playoffs for a second year in a row while also making it to the Conference finals where a late collapse denied them a place in the MLS Cup. Minnesota built on a solid campaign the previous year as they went unbeaten in their opening seven games of the current season. A dip in form followed when regular season resumed in August, with Minnesota losing three straight games, but they quickly steadied the ship and went on a decent run of form though a leaky defense meant they were denied crucial points that would have pushed them closer to the top of the Western Conference. An eight-match unbeaten run at the end of regular season ensured a solid fourth placed finish for Minnesota while convincing victories against Colorado Rapids and Sporting Kansas City in the playoffs meant they were favorites to make it to the MLS Cup. Despite taking a two-goal lead, a late collapse saw them concede three goals in final 15 minutes thus bring a disappointing close to the campaign. Minnesota once again caught the eye with some good attacking displays but it was at the back where they struggled with first choice defender Ike Opara missing the whole season due to the corona virus outbreak while Tyler Miller was also limited to just eight starts. The Loons have a settled offense with Molino, Reynoso and Finlay providing excellent support to the front line but coach Heath will need to bolster the defense if Minnesota are to enjoy an even more successful campaign next season.

Player of the Season: Emanuel Reynoso