As Minnesota United and the Seattle Sounders head into the deciding Game 3 of their first-round playoff series on Saturday, the fifth game between the two teams this season, neither has much in the way of tactical surprises left to spring. It’s less about wrong-footing the opposition, and more about execution and intensity and energy. The Loons, despite knowing what was coming in Game 2 on Monday, ended up on the wrong side of that.

Read more: MNUFC wants to bring intensity to Game 3 vs. Seattle

GAME 2: Sounders 4, Loons 2

SEATTLE – It was almost impossible to find a player, coach, or staff member from Minnesota United that had anything positive to say about the best-of-three format of the first round of the MLS playoffs.

After the Loons dropped Game 2 to the Seattle Sounders 4-2 on Monday night at Lumen Field, though, the entire club might be a little more positive about having a Game 3 still to play.

Ed. note: I’m inordinately proud of that SEATTLE dateline - it worked out perfectly that my family trip to Seattle coincided with Game 2.

Read more: Minnesota United lose to Seattle Sounders 4-2 in Game 2 of first-round MLS playoff series

Dayne St. Clair is Goalkeeper of the Year

Minnesota United has become known for its defense, and goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair is getting some recognition for his contribution to that reputation. MLS announced Monday that St. Clair is the 2025 Goalkeeper of the Year, an honor for a keeper who reached another level this season.

Read more: MNUFC’s Dayne St. Clair is MLS Goalkeeper of the Year

EARLIER: MNUFC faces Seattle Sounders in Game 2 of MLS playoff series