New Mexico United topped Detroit City FC by a 1-0 final in front of nearly 10,000 fans at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park on Saturday night, as hometown hero Alex Waggoner scored a late back post header to give the Black & Yellow the dramatic victory and move them into playoff positioning as the club enters the second half of the season.
United came out firing in the first half, accumulating 10 shots in the frame, and an astronomical 0.99 expected goals before the halftime whistle sounded. That first period included two shots off the crossbar, a goal line clearance, and one terrific save from Detroit City goalkeeper Nate Steinwascher, but incredibly no goals, as the two teams went into the locker room even at zeroes.
In the second half, the dynamism of United’s attack largely faded. But key substitutes Josh Suggs and Waggoner sparked the offense back to life, ultimately resulting in a beautiful chip from Daniel Bruce to a back-post-streaking Waggoner, who’s header left United fans in a frenzy. That one-nil scoreline would hold, as United’s defending would see out the result.
History was made multiple times tonight, as Suggs recorded his 100th appearance for New Mexico United, and his 250th appearance in the USL Championship, becoming the second and third player, respectively, to accomplish each feat. The shutout was also Alex Tambakis’ 43rd in his USL Championship career, moving him to second all-time in that category.
Most importantly, the win moved United back into playoff position. The Black & Yellow have won three of their last four matches, and are unbeaten in four straight.
