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RECAP | United 1, Silverbacks 0

Minnesota United won its first match of the season, and snapped Atlanta Silverbacks' unbeaten run in the process
NASL Staff | May 9, 2015

Minnesota United earned its first win of the 2015 season in front of its second straight sellout crowd. Pablo Campos scored the lone goal with the assist coming from midfielder Miguel Ibarra.

"We were certainly anxious to get this first win," United head coach Manny Lagos said. "We knew Atlanta's defense would be tough to break down, and we didn't create a ton of chances, but when we did they were good ones which resulted in a good goal at the end of the first half."

The first half was dominated by Minnesota, who kept possession for the majority of the first 45 minutes. United had several potent attacks, but could only manage a few shots. The Loons would only need one to find the target, and it came from a familiar source. Just like the last home match, Miguel Ibarra found space running down the edge of the box. Ibarra put a low cross into the center of the penalty area where it found the trailing foot of Pablo Campos. Campos was able to use his heel to knock the ball around Atlanta goalkeeper Steward Ceus and give United the 1-0 lead in the 43rd minute.

Atlanta took over possession in the second half, pinning United on its own side. The Silverbacks got their best chances off of several corners midway through the half. Shaka Bangura had a low volley destined for the left corner, but a goal-line clearance from United defender Tiago Calvano kept Minnesota in the lead.

Neither goalkeeper was truly tested in the match as both teams struggled to get shots on goal. Late in the game both teams looked poised to score, but poor finishing caused most attacks to end in a goal kick for the defenders.

Despite a strong push from Atlanta late in the match, Minnesota was able to hold on and get its first victory of the 2015 season and end Atlanta's unbeaten run.

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