Minnesota United have earned their first point as an MLS team, trading goals on the road against the Colorado Rapids in a match that finished 2-2. Minnesota came into their match with the Rapids hungry, and they weren't afraid to press at altitude in their pursuit of turning their MLS campaign around. This paid off briefly in their first lead as an MLS side, but a lack of focus lead to surrendering that lead one minute later. MNUFC then had to hold onto the draw while down a man, as Justin Davis was sent off for a studs-up challenge to Marlon Hairston's knee.
Goals
- 17' - COL - Dominique Badji Watch
- 50' - MIN - Kevin Molino (PK) Watch
- 58' - MIN - Christian Ramirez Watch
- 59' - COL - Marlon Hairston Watch
Three Things
- SUPERMAN AND MOLINO CAN: The book on Minnesota in the early going, despite the blowout loses, is that the offense was showing encouraging signs of life. The match against the Rapids was like a summary of their first two weeks, Christian Ramirez scoring from the run of play and Kevin Molino from a penalty kick. Both Rapids goals can be chalked up to defensive mistakes, but fewer such mistakes should be encouraging for Loons fans.
- A FORTRESS NO LONGER: If there's been a constant for the Rapids under Pablo Mastroeni, it's their ability to keep opponents off the scoreboard at home: Minnesota's two-goal output was the first time the Rapids have given up multiple goals at home since October 4, 2015, a 2-1 loss to Real Salt Lake, a run of 19 regular-season games.
- HAIRSTON WATCH: The play of Marlon Hairston has been one of the hallmarks of the Rapids' return to Western Conference contention. His goal tonight saved a point for the Rapids, and his play from the midfield going forward was a key part in Colorado keeping possession for most of the night. His status will be something to track heading out of the weekend.
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