MNUFC2 on Sunday night hosted Earthquakes II on Decision Day and the final match of its inaugural MLS NEXT Pro season, ultimately falling 4-1 to the California side.
Statistically, the match was fairly even, as shots, shots on target, crosses and possession were just about balanced between the sides. But, it just wasn’t to be for the Loons. Quakes II scored in the second minute of the game, slipping the shot past MNUFC2 goalkeeper Fred Emmings. The San Jose side would notch another goal in the 26th minute, leading 2-0 at half. Shortly after the start of the final 45 minutes, the visitors added their third goal in the 50th minute. But, Minnesota kept the fight and upped its urgency, resulting in the 57th-minute goal scored by forward Tani Oluwaseyi. Midfielder Justin McMaster provided the assist on the perfectly-timed cross inside the six-yard box. The goal was notably Oluwaseyi’s second goal scored in as many matches. A few minutes later, Earthquakes II would seal the victory with the fourth goal in the 64th minute.
With the loss, MNUFC2 finishes its inaugural season in the sixth position in the MLS NEXT Pro Western Conference (9-10-5, 36 points).
MNUFC2 will return in 2023, with a full schedule to be released in the coming months.**
GOALS**
0-1 SJE – Joaquin Eisenberg, Assist by Miles Robinson (2’)
0-2 SJE – Maximilian Arfsten, Assist by Eduardo Blancas (26’)
0-3 SJE – Rodolfo Castro, Assist by Maximilian Arfsten (50’)
1-3 MIN – Tani Oluwaseyi, Assist by Justin McMaster (57’)
1-4 SJE – Maximilian Arfsten, Assist by Rodolfo Castro (64’)
DISCIPLINAIRY SUMMARY
Yellow, SJE – Nathan Scott (38’)
Yellow, MIN – Carlos Leatherman (42’)
Yellow, SJE – Miles Robinson (61’)
Yellow, SJE – Omar Lemus (80’)
NOTABLE STATS
2- MNUFC2 forward Tani Oluwaseyi scored his second goal for the Loons this MLS NEXT Pro season, marking the second-consecutive game he has netted a goal.**
TEAM LEADERS (Updated through September 18)**
Goals – Aziel Jackson (10)
Assists – Aziel Jackson (7)
Saves – Fred Emmings (52)
Wins – Fred Emmings (4)
Shutouts – Eric Dick (2)
