Mender Garcia scored the lone goal early in the second half and Minnesota United protected the lead to notch a 1-0 victory over FC Dallas in the season opener for both teams at Frisco, Texas.
Dayne St. Clair made one save while recording his 12th career shutout for Minnesota United.
Minnesota United played without two-time All-Star midfielder Emanuel Reynoso, who is in his native Argentina dealing with personal matters. The MLS suspended Reynoso when he didn’t report to training camp.
Maarten Paes made three saves for FC Dallas, which had their streak of 13 consecutive unbeaten season openers halted.
Garcia scored on a rebound in the 48th minute.
Franco Fragapane’s right-footed blast was stopped by Paes and Garcia jumped on the rebound and knocked it past the fallen Paes with his right foot for his second goal in 10 career MLS matches.
FC Dallas had a scoring chance in the 82nd minute but Alan Velasco sent his right-footed shot wide right of the net. Two minutes later, Jesus Ferreira was off the mark with a header.
FC Dallas kept the pressure on during 5 minutes of second-half stoppage time but Paul Arriola’s header that was blocked was the final shot attempt. Minnesota United defense prevented Dallas from getting into position for a shot over the final three minutes.
FC Dallas took 11 shots but placed only one on target. Minnesota placed four of eight on target.
FC Dallas couldn’t break through in the first half despite having a 6-2 edge in shots and 7-0 advantage in corner kicks.
Minnesota had a splendid opportunity in the 37th minute when Kervin Arriaga took a free kick and set a right-foot blast toward the net. Paes got his right hand on the ball and it hit the crossbar and bounced over the net.
Five minutes later, FC Dallas had a chance to go ahead but Sebastian Lletget’s header was knocked over the crossbar by St. Clair.
–Field Level Media
