Minnesota United: Three takeaways from the New England match

Minnesota went to New England to play the Revolution, and lost 5-2 at Gillette Stadium. There weren’t many bright spots, but here are the takeaways.

Minnesota United went to New England shorthanded, and you could tell. Missing 6 starters, including 4 to international duty, Minnesota were simply outclassed by a better Revolution squad.

1) Minnesota desperately missed their international players

Due to the international break, Minnesota were without Kevin Molino, Johan Venegas, Francisco Calvo, and Rasmus Schüller. Those players were sorely missed, as the midfield and defense looked to be in disarray throughout the match. Minnesota United will certainly be excited to get their international players back, who can hopefully help them earn a result against RSL next week.

2) Vadim Demidov needs to play as a #6, or come off the bench

Due to the absence of Francisco Calvo, Vadim Demidov was forced to play as a center back, and had a terrible day. The Norwegian international conceded a penalty, and was consistently torched on the right half of the back line.

Norwegian sources have claimed that Demidov plays much better as #6, so perhaps he would perform better if played moved there. If Adrian doesn’t think he fits though, it may be in Minnesota’s best interests to put him on the bench and continue to start Brent Kallman next to Francisco Calvo. At this point most option changes on the backline are worth a try.

Mar 25, 2017; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Revolution forward Femi Hollinger-Janzen (88) is defended by Minnesota Timberwolves defender Vadim Demidov (6) during the second half at Gillette Stadium. The New England Revolution won 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /

3) Kevin Venegas does not look like an MLS quality player

Former NASL player Kevin Venegas started at right back today as Jèrôme Thiesson shifted to the left to cover for Justin Davis, who was out due to a suspension. Venegas looked out of his depth against the Revolution, as New England did most of their damage on the right side.

Chances seemed to come easily whenever New England went after Venegas and Demidov. It was speculated before the season that at least one of Minnesota’s NASL players wouldn’t be able to cut it at the MLS, and it’s looking more and more like it may be Venegas who gets that dubious distinction.

Next: Minnesota United earns first MLS point

This may force Minnesota to get a full back during the summer window, but overall investment along the backline will be in the team’s best interests.

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