Minnesota United FC rebounded from a tough loss to open the 2018 MLS regular season with a 2-1 road win over Orlando City SC on Saturday night at Orlando City Stadium.
It was the visitors who drew first blood, as a nifty pass from Kevin Molino broke through Orlando City's defense to find Ethan Finlay, with the American slotting the shot into the goal in the 12th minute. The lead held until a few minutes before halftime, as Richie Laryea drew a penalty from Finlay on the very edge of the box that underwent Video Review. Yoshi Yotun converted the spot kick to make it 1-1.
But as the game became more and more testy, it appeared the match may end in a stalemate. Finlay ensured that wouldn't happen, as substitutes Mason Toye and Miguel Ibarra connected to set up Finlay for his second goal of the night in the 79th minute.
Goals
- 12' - MIN - Ethan Finlay
- 42' - ORL - Yoshi Yotun (PK)
- 79' - MIN - Ethan Finlay
Three Things
- The Big Picture: It's a good win for Minnesota, especially since it was the return to Orlando for Adrian Heath and Molino. The Loons are now 2-0-0 in MLS play against Orlando City. For Orlando City, there's the realization that this team should get much better when Sacha Kljestan, Uri Rosell and Dom Dwyer are available, but getting just one point in two home games to start the season has to be disappointing.
- Moment of the Match: It has to be the winning goal. With Minnesota determined not to let Orlando overturn the game completely, Finlay's run into the box off Ibarra's cross was a worthy winner.
- Man of the Match: Safe to say Finlay had an active night, between his goals and the penalty he conceded. Still, his balance sheet was tilted in Minnesota's favor overall, and he provided the incisive play in attack the Loons needed for the full 90 minutes.
Next Up
- Orlando City SC: Saturday, March 17 at NYCFC (3:30 pm ET | Univision - Full TV & Streaming Info)
- Minnesota United FC: Saturday, March 17 vs. Chicago Fire (2 pm ET | FOX - Full TV & Streaming Info)
