On Saturday, June 21, New Mexico United snatched another win. In a heart pounding overtime, United surged past San Antonio FC and left the pitch having jumped to first place in the West Conference, after winning the game 4-2.
Under the blazing sun, United got ready to defend their winning record. The early minutes of the game unfolded slowly; both teams were locked in a physical battle which resulted in multiple fouls causing United to earn a penalty kick. Jaylin Lindsey calmly stepped up and converted, putting New Mexico on the scoreboard with a confident strike.
United would go the rest of the half not capitalizing on goal opportunities. San Antonio's defense pushed back New Mexico’s offense multiple times and made corner kicks difficult. Although United continued to press forward, there were moments of hesitation and lack of control in their possession which made it difficult to build consistent momentum.
Frustration began to build among fans and coaching staff as United had created multiple chances to score but failed to put the ball in the net. Despite offensive stalls, United's defense did a great job at pushing back the offense giving them zero space to capitalize on goals. The half concluded the score at 1-0.
The second half turned to a more intense environment as Luis Andres Paredes received his second yellow card reducing San Antonio to only ten men. This lowered the chances of San Antonio having a strong offensive line. United took advantage of their numbers and pressed the ball in deep, opening crosses to score.
San Antonio snagged a penalty kick and struck to tie the game. With eagerness, United made yet another goal before San Antonio scored again which tied them towards the end of regulation play, sending the game into overtime. After clutch substitutions with a fresh mindset and energy, United was able to get back on top to dominate San Antonio in overtime.
Luiz Fernando broke through the defense with a clutch strike, putting United back in front and making San Antonio exhausted and out of rhythm. United didn’t let up — Marlon Vargas fired home a final dagger, sealing the match at 4–2 sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
United plays an international friendly match against FC Juárez on Wednesday, June 25. Then they play a cup match against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC on Saturday, June 28.
Esmeralda Lozano is a freelance reporter for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at sports@dailylobo.com or on X @dailylobo
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