New Mexico United’s first preseason match ended in a draw on Thursday afternoon, as the Black & Yellow finished 2-2 against reigning USL Championship Eastern Conference Champs Louisville City FC. The match – United’s first of three in the next week in Tucson – featured 23 different United players, including first team regulars, trialists, and Academy Contract players. This game – and the entire 2023 New Mexico United preseason – are presented by TLC Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.
Things got off to an inauspicious start for United in this match, as the opening kick-off was quickly stolen away by Lou City, who put together a few quick passes and opened the scoring in the game’s first minute.
Half an hour later, a consistent high press from United paid off, as an errant pass fell to the foot of Sam Hamilton at the top of the box. Hamilton took one touch and fired over the goalkeeper to equalize in the 32nd minute.
Four minutes later, a terrific corner kick from Justin portillo almost gave United the lead, as Kalen Ryden was first to get up to it; heading into the turf and forcing an excellent save out of the Lou City keeper. Kalen would nearly score on another header later in the match.
At halftime, United made wholesale changes, as only Will Seymore, Josh Dolling and Cristian Nava remained from the first half eleven. United debutants included trialists Dylan Tovani, Danny Robles, and Jose Sosa in the second half.
Just six minutes into the second frame, Chris Wehan gave United the lead, as his diagonal pass found Bruce at the top of the Louisville box. Bruce smartly left the ball there for a streaking Wehan, who powered over the keeper for a 2-1 lead.
The second half also saw debuts for Academy Contract signings Alex Waggoner, Miles Merritt, and Andres Robles – all of whom made key contributions down the stretch. Lou City would add an equalizer late to secure the draw.
Video highlights and post-match interviews with Head Coach/Technical Director Zach Prince, and goal-scorer Sam Hamilton will be provided shortly.
