New Mexico United is helping bring TOPSoccer, a national program designed to bring the game to players with intellectual, physical and emotional disabilities, to … Read moreUnited helps launch TOPSoccer program in New Mexico
This time the fireworks came right on cue.
It's been more than five years in the making. Can New Mexico United rise to meet the moment?
"For me, this is a chance to stand up for New Mexico and our fans, show we can compete for a championship and do things right. I honestly can't wait for Sunday," said Sergio Rivas.
Despite the loss, New Mexico United finished first in the USL Championship's Western Conference and will host No. 8 seed Phoenix Rising FC in round one of the playoffs on Nov. 3.
New Mexico United say Saturday's Blackout Night contest feels a lot like a must-win game. "Most important game of the season," assistant coach Luke Sanford said.
"Proud of the way we defended," United coach Eric Quill said in a postgame interview. "Orange County's been in great form and they didn't have any clear-cut chances tonight. I thought our structure and communication on defense were outstanding."
United visits Orange County SC for its final road trip of the regular season and, on paper, has relatively little at stake. However, NMU is hoping to build momentum for a postseason run.
United secured its first-ever USL Championship Western Conference title on Saturday night after playing to a draw with FC Tulsa.Â
New Mexico United can clinch conference crown with win or draw Saturday