Positives
The 3-5-2. Minnesota United head coach Adrian Heath has found a genius tactical adjustment for his team, and its potential could be boundless. The new formation does so many things for this team; namely, seemingly solving the team’s two biggest problems — flimsy defense and inability to create enough chances — in one fell swoop.
Negatives
Mental lapses. Ibson’s assisting Toronto with their opening goal was, well, in a word, very Ibson. But in another word: nonsensical. It’s the very type of mistake that drives Heath crazy and something he’s been looking to stomp out for a season and a half. The third goal was another crystal clear example as the entire team switched off on a late corner and wasn’t attuned to the danger of Toronto taking the set piece quickly. Fantastically talented teams at this year’s World Cup have fallen victim to this exact play so it’s somewhat understandable, but still, in theory, it shouldn’t happen.
Coach rating out of 10
9 — The tactical change to the 3-5-2 (or 5-3-2) could be the defining move of Heath’s season. His team looks wildly different when they play in their new formation, and the Loons have played neck-and-neck with some of the best MLS has to offer since the change. With their new look, United defeated Toronto in spectacular fashion on Saturday and should have defeated FC Dallas last week.
Player ratings (1-10; 10 = best)
*Players introduced after 70 minutes get no rating
GK Bobby Shuttleworth, 7 — Wasn’t overly tested as you might expect by a team as potent as Toronto, but did make one spectacular save late. Was completely left out to dry on all three goals he conceded. There’s simply no arguing he could have done anything about any of the goals that hit the back of his net.
CB Brent Kallman, 7 — Provides a stable presence in defense, and the switch to a five-back system helps insulate him from his biggest weakness at this level: being in possession. This new formation, as it does for a lot of the team, plays to his strengths and away from his weaknesses.
CB Michael Boxall, 7 — Has been one of MNUFC’s most consistent performers all season long, and Wednesday was no different. Would like to have seen him keep his defense fully aware at the very end, but conceding that final goal didn’t change the result.
CB Francisco Calvo, 7 — The new system could fit the Costa Rican like a glove. His ball-playing ability is wasted when he’s in a two-back formation, so the new setup is a welcomed sight. This was made clear as day on United’s second goal when it was Calvo’s brilliant pass that assisted Miguel Ibarra’s goal.
RWB Miguel Ibarra, 9 — His industry and work rate are perfect for a wingback role, and he’s showing that immediately. Getting back on defense every single time but still having the energy to get forward and create/finish chances might as well be trademarked by Ibarra as it’s a style all his own.
LWB Alexi Gomez, 8 — The back five provides a solid platform for risk-takers such as Gomez (and Calvo). It gives the cover necessary for these players to express themselves without having to be too concerned with making a mistake. It’s a perfect yin and yang for Gomez and Calvo and allows the Loons to get the most of their upside while limiting their downside.
CM Collen Warner, 7 — It’s clear Warner has stuck in MLS for as long as he has because he still has the mind and vision necessary to play, even if his body is slowing down. Warner simply can’t cope in other schemes that rely on the mobility of a center mid, but the new system doesn’t require that so it works for Warner.
CM Ibson, 6 — You can’t gift the other team a goal in horrendous fashion and muster a high match rating, even despite numerous other good deeds.
CM Rasmus Schuller, 7 — The new formation provides an even more ideal scenario for the Finland international to make his timely interceptions as has become his patented contribution this season.
ST Darwin Quintero, 10 — Absolutely stunning performance from the Colombian. His hat trick was the first in franchise history and each goal took your breath away. It’s outrageous to chip a keeper once in a game, but to do it twice? Get out of here. The Scientist is in a league of his own.
ST Christian Ramirez, 6 — A solid yet underwhelming performance from the frontman. Hard to stand out when your strike partner has the performance of the season.
Substitutes
ST Mason Toye, N/A
LB Collin Martin, N/A
D Eric Miller, N/A
Become a Zone Coverage Member Today!
