Recap: Loons, Galaxy play to 0-0 stalemate

Hoping to rebound from an excruciating loss to Toronto FC last weekend, Minnesota United’s defense held fast against the LA Galaxy as the Western Conference foes drew 0-0 at Allianz Field.

Manager Adrian Heath’s hand was slightly forced in his lineup, left without Francisco Calvo and Jan Greguš due to red card suspensions. Eric Miller replaced Calvo at left back while Ozzie Alonso wore the captain’s armband. Rasmus Schuller started instead of Greguš in central midfield. Abu Danladi started on the right wing and Kevin Molino made his first start since tearing his ACL on March 10, 2018. After a poor performance last time out, Michael Boxall went to the bench for Brent Kallman

Minnesota took some time to find their place in the match, but the start was fairly strong. The Galaxy maintained about 60% possession through the first half, however the Loons’ back line held fast and several opportunities came on counter attacks.

The Loons’ front four melded well, producing several opportunities and seven corners in the first half. The lack of score at the interval was a positive sign for United.

Darwin Quintero had one of the best chances of the match in the 54th minute, opening up a shot by switching the ball to his left foot, but the Colombian playmaker had too much air on the effort and it curled high and wide.

Though Molino played well, his night ended without much serious action as he departed the match for Miguel Ibarra at the hour mark. At the same time, a significant rain shower came down on Allianz Field.

With about fifteen minutes to go in the game, Heath swapped the physicality of Angelo Rodriguez for the pace on Romario Ibarra. At the 87-minute mark, Ethan Finlay replaced Danladi with the Loons’ final substitution.

Despite six minutes of stoppage time, United was unable to break down the Galaxy’s defense.

Minnesota is back in action on Sunday as they host DC United.