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It’s probably gonna be a wet one, folks.
Minnesota United hosts the Columbus Crew on Saturday night in a match that will likely receive some Minnesota-quality weather.
Ignore the fact that it’s mid-May and prepare for a temperature in the 40’s with possible thunderstorms.
On the field, the Loons will face an Eastern Conference side that sits in 7th place, with 5 wins and a single draw. The Crew have just one win on the road, having lost four times.
Columbus is a weakened club through injury, with goalkeeper Zack Steffen and defenders Milton Valenzuela, Harrison Afful and Waylon Francis all listed as out. Minnesota may also face some selection issues, namely at fullback. Eric Miller should start on the left side, but the status of his right-sided counterpart is cloudy. Carter Manley and Chase Gasper — who would likely play on the left anyway — are both out, and Romain Metanire’s wife is expected to give birth at any moment. Backup goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth is also out.
Much of the focus for United will be on its attack. The club has scored just two goals in the last four games and star attacker Darwin Quintero has struggled. The Crew’s defensive absences could help the Loons jumpstart their goal-scoring abilities once again.
Weather may be a factor in Saturday’s game. As of this writing (Friday afternoon), Accuweather predicts rain settling in during the course of the match, with temperatures in the high 40’s, but a feel closer to the high 30’s.
Start Time: 7:00p
Location: Allianz Field
TV: Fox Sports North+
Radio: SKOR North (1500 AM)