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Jon Marthaler

Freelance | Newsroom

Jon Marthaler has been covering Minnesota soccer for more than 15 years, all the way back to the Minnesota Thunder.

Recent content from Jon Marthaler
Minnesota United defender Michael Boxall, left, shoots the ball against Real Salt Lake on Tuesday in Salt Lake City.

Loons take 1-0 lead in MLS Cup first round with win over Real Salt Lake

Loons took the opening match of the best-of-three series on penalty kicks, winning the shootout 5-4.
Minnesota United coach Eric Ramsay has steered the team's playoff run.

ALEX KORMANN • alex.kormann@startribune.com

How Minnesota United dug out of a huge hole and made the MLS Cup Playoffs

The Loons shook everything up, endured a brutal, eight-game stretch and landed in a playoff series against Real Salt Lake that many think they can win.
Goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, left, gives Minnesota United an intimidating presence for penalty kicks.

Analysis: Loons playoff series has penalty kicks written all over it

Loons games against Real Salt Lake are almost always close, and with no overtime in the MLS Cup Playoffs, penalty kicks could very well decide this.