Recap: Superheroes lead the way as Loons shutout Impact

In the last game of their extensive spring homestand, Minnesota United was able to find the necessary three points against a struggling Montreal Impact. Though the visitors were initally the more dangerous team, the Loons rallied in the second half thanks to some superhuman goalscorers.

Minnesota’s starting lineup was fairly anticipated. Fullback Jerome Thiesson, who picked up a groin injury in last week’s draw with Sporting Kansas City, was not available so Tyrone Mears returned to the XI for the first time since a calf injury on March 31st. Ibson, who was dealing with thigh issues, did start. Manager Adrian Heath picked an attack heavy bench that featured two forwards, clearly showing that he intended to secure all three points against Montreal.

The match began in a dull fashion. The Impact had the better of the chances as United attacked into the sunshine. The biggest event of the early portion’s of the game came in the form of a brief kerfuffle that saw Alexi Gomez and Montreal’s Raheem Edwards both pick up VAR-recommended yellow cards.

Minnesota’s first real opportunity to score came just after the 40th minute. Darwin Quintero broke through the Montreal back line, but his shot rolled about a foot wide of the post. Moments later, Alexi Gomez rattled a half-volley off the crossbar.

It was Christian Ramirez who would give the Loons a 1-0 lead. Ibson found Superman up top with a pass, which Ramirez turned on target. Impact goalkeeper Evan Bush deflected it into his own net.

Moments later, Ramirez’s super-heroic counterpart, Miguel Ibarra scored a stunner to double the lead. Batman’s beautiful, bending effort left Bush without a chance.

Minnesota was not particularly challenged on defense or challenging on the attack in the next portions of the match. Ramirez was replaced by midfielder Collin Martin, briefly putting the Loons in a 4-3-3 with Quintero up top. The DP was shortly exchanged for Abu Danladi.

Both Danladi and Gomez had reasonable chances to further United’s lead, but both were thwarted in their attempts by a defender and Bush, respectively. Frantz Pangop came in for Ibson late in the game.