On Saturday, April 26, New Mexico United faced off against Union Omaha, where it secured a 2-0 victory.
United kicked off the first half of the game with a burst of energy, ready for what was to come. Fans packed the stands, ready to cheer on the team with traditional chants. United did not disappoint; it had a great first half.
United opened the game with a tactical approach, focusing on precision and smart, controlled plays. Omaha was pushed back for most of the match, carefully controlling possession of the ball. United inched closer to goal opportunities, showing more eagerness as the time on the clock ran in the first half.
United cut off passing lanes for Omaha, making it tricky to get the ball down the field. With tactical plays, United was able to press the ball toward midfield and cross closer to the goal. After a penalty was made by Omaha, United player Talen Maples capitalized on the opportunity and went for the kick, slotting the goal. United led 1-0 at the end of the first half.
The second half was just as good as the first half. But this time, tension started to boil with Omaha, as it was anxious to score a goal to tie the game. United was able to press the ball high enough to persist in goals. However, there were countless missed opportunities for United to convert.
Finally, Marlon Vargas secured another goal with 90 minutes on the clock.
Shortly after United’s goal, frustrations boiled over on the Omaha side. Words flew over the team and the crowd. Tension broke after an Omaha player, who was the main cause of the confrontation, was escorted off the field. United stayed composed and ended the match, winning 2-0.
Esmeralda Lozano is a freelance reporter for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at sports@dailylobo.com or on X @dailylobo
