Undoubtedly, the Loons will face a formidable test this Wednesday evening when they head to Salt Lake City to take on the current three seed in the West, Real Salt Lake. And, no, I’m not looking to dwell too much on such a successful showing against Colorado over this past weekend, but I would be remiss if I didn’t at least acknowledge how massive of a result the Loons’ 3-0 victory was in the grand scheme of their season—particularly when you consider the current standing they find themselves on as they draw closer to their playoff destination.
For those lucky enough to be in attendance at what was arguably Minnesota United’s best game of the year, your eardrums likely felt the home crowd’s volume more than at any point over the past couple seasons. Sure, finding success on your home turf is something every club strives for. But, after a dismal home record of 4-4-9 in 2023 followed by an only slightly improved run of form at home (6-6-4) in 2024, the Loons winning in emphatic fashion to claim their first home victory since July 20th feels especially vital if they hope to find further success in the remainder of the regular season and beyond. Whether they're the home team or not.
An 11th-place finish and just 41 points in 2023 was certainly disappointing for a club that had grown accustomed to making the playoffs. Add in the uniquely strange off-field challenges the team faced, and it’s easy to understand why last year didn’t go their way. One major issue was their inability to capitalize at home—securing only four wins from 17 matches at Allianz Field played a significant role in their struggle to compete for a playoff spot.
While 2024 has had its own share of challenges, this season has seen some improvement in the Loons’ home form. That’s not to say it has been perfect—far from it at times—but securing six home victories, with the potential to add one more, shows a return to the kind of positive home-field advantage the club enjoyed before last season. Based on Saturday night’s dominant showing, it feels like Allianz Field may be once again returning to the type of fortress it has been for the Loons in seasons past.
After reestablishing some confidence in their abilities to handle business at home, I believe it may be something that can only strengthen their momentum as they head toward a playoff berth. And, no matter where the chips may fall after Decision Day, the Loons look like a squad that is heading in the right direction at the right time to make some noise in the playoffs.
