For the second time in as many weeks, New Mexico United is forced to make a cross-country trek. Their destination this week is Charleston, South Carolina to face off against the Battery. The last time that United stepped foot in Patriots Point, they walked away with a 2-0 win.
That win was two years ago. In 2023 the Battery took the spoils during the return match at The Lab. Both of these clubs have undergone drastic changes since the first meeting between the two sides and now, they’re both looking at building for the future.
After the 2023 season, the Battery completely overhauled their roster. The club decided to part ways with nearly 75% of their roster from the campaign, by far, one of the highest turnover rates in the league. Head Coach Ben Pirmann has rebuilt his side from the ground up and they’re hoping to get back to playoff form. With a new stable of attackers and a largely remade midfield, the Battery are trying to figure things out.
Over the first two matches of the season, they’ve held possession for over 60% of the time in each, but have only put 8 shots on frame. The biggest question facing the South Carolina club is where do the goals come from. Jackson Conway may be their best bet. A native of Leeds, England, Conway spent the past five years playing for Atlanta United 2. In 88 appearances for the Five Stripes, Conway found the back of the net 28 times. If he gets quality service from the other new faces, he’s liable to be in for a good season.
Player to Watch
Adam Grinwis – While some thought that it would be the returner Daniel Kuzemka would be given the nod this season, it was veteran newcomer Adam Grinwis that was entrusted with the number one role. Grinwis has spent his career as a journeyman keeper and hasn’t had many opportunities to be the guy. His defense has kept him largely safe from danger so far this season, but against a United side that is going to try to get forward, he will see his biggest test of the season.
United is looking for their best start since the 2022 season when they opened the campaign with four matches unbeaten. After two consecutive matches against tough opponents, back-to-back trips to the east coast could take a toll on the club. When asked on Tuesday on Somos Mas, David Weise-Carl confirmed that the club traveled back to Albuquerque after the Rhode Island match. While there’s something to being at home, that’s a lot of travel for anyone to deal with. Fortunately, this club is no stranger to travel.
Being on the road this early in the season will be a benefit to the club later in the year. With the early road trips, United will have a back end of the schedule that is loaded with home matches. The road trips also give the club time to gel as a team and work some of the newer players into match form, particularly through the midfield. With vastly different performance levels between the first two matches, there’s room for improvement for the Black & Yellow. The club will need to find a way to break down a solid defensive club and work the box for chances to shoot.
Player to Watch
Nicky Hernandez – After coming to the club mid-2023, Nicky became a fan favorite for his work rate and ability on the ball. Arguably, Nicky is better defensively than he is going forward, but, he’s always going to be a solid option for Eric Quill.
Saturday’s match between New Mexico United and Charleston Battery is set to kick off from Patriot’s Point at 5:30 PM (MDT). Adam Diehl and Andy Hageman will bring you coverage for ESPN Radio 101.7 FM The TEAM with the pregame show starting at 4:30 PM. The duo will continue with every minute of every play on ESPN Radio 101.7 FM The TEAM, The TEAM website, and The TEAM apps.