Minnesota United vs. Atlanta preview
March 12, 2017 at 12:44AM
4 p.m. vs. Atlanta United FC • ESPN2, ESPN 1500
Expansion vs. expansion
Preview: For better or worse for Minnesota United FC, this is when the team can finally put its comparison to fellow expansion side Atlanta United FC to rest. While both squads are 0-1-0 after dropping their openers, Atlanta had the better outing, losing 2-1 to New York Red Bulls while the Loons lost 5-1 to the Timbers in Portland. Atlanta has technically scored more goals, though, with midfielder Yamil Asad's strike and defender Anton Walkes' own goal.
Guess who's back? As United coach Adrian Heath put it: "Everybody who we wanted to be involved is available for selection." This means No. 1 draft pick Abu Danladi will be on the bench after recovering from back spasms, and new arrival Jerome Thiesson, a defender, will be a part of the action, too. Goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth also has returned from a slight injury.
Unavailable: Defender Thomas de Villardi is still working on his contract. ... Midfielder Bernardo Anor is still on the disabled list because of a nerve problem in his leg. ... Defender Joe Greenspan injured his head Friday. ... Atlanta midfielder Carlos Carmona is suspended (red card).
MEGAN RYAN
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