United fail to hold onto two-goal lead, fall to Real Monarchs 3-2

United fail to hold onto two-goal lead, fall to Real Monarchs 3-2

For the second time in two matches, New Mexico United surrendered a first-half lead and was unable to find their back into even a single point. Wednesday night’s match was arguably the worse of the two results since it came against the bottom team in the Mountain Division, Real Monarchs.

The night started off well enough for United as they looked energetic and as though they had forgotten about Colorado Springs. That confidence and extra effort paid off for the visitors in the 15th. Daniel Bruce, who is becoming known for his wonder-goals, laced a shot from 30 yards out and was able to shake the net.

Ten minutes later, the lead was extended to two. This time it was Andrew Tinari going to the right side of the box and worked himself into space. Taking the ball onto his left foot, he curled the ball inside the far post and out of reach of the Monarchs keeper. After earning a two-goal lead inside of thirty minutes, the match looked well in hand for United.

Douglas Martinez and the hosts had other plans, however.

Justin Portillo pulled a goal back for the hosts in the 38th. His strike from distance made its way into the bottom corner of the net after Philip Beigl was unable to secure it.

The score would remain in the favor of United until the 54th. Douglas Martinez was open in space on the right side of the box and took enough attention away from the middle of the area to allow Aris Briggs to get inside. Briggs was able to finish from close range and pull level.

Real wasn’t satisfied with just one point. They continued to play aggressively throughout the second half and found a third goal in the 65th. This time it was from Noah Powder, one of their defenders. Once again, an attempt from distance got past Beigl. Powder’s shot took a looping slice towards the far post and struck off the inside of the bar giving the Monarchs the lead, 3-2.

Player of the Match

Douglas Martinez – The Monarchs forward was dangerous all night long and put himself and his teammates in position repeatedly to get inside the box. Although he didn’t score, he did manage an assist and took a lot of attention away from other areas of the pitch.

Up Next

United returns to action on Saturday when they take on El Paso Locomotive FC. That match will take place at Southwest University Park and is scheduled to kickoff at 7:30 p.m. (MDT).