It’s been a busy week on and off the pitch for New Mexico United. Not only are they coming off of a win in the Open Cup, but the club is bouncing with the news that they are hosting an MLS club for the first time in Albuquerque as well as an upcoming friendly against Liga MX side FC Juarez. Momentum is certainly with the Black & Yellow.
After a bye week in league play, United returns to the pitch across the country. For the third time in the young season, New Mexico gets to play on the East Coast, this time against North Carolina FC. NCFC has been around in some form since 2006 and is returning to the USL Championship after spending the last three seasons in League One. Before making the jump back to the top, they won the League One Championship on their way out the door.
Since returning, they’ve experienced a mixed bag of results. Sitting at a record of 1-2-3, they haven’t quite found their rhythm this season. That being said, they have been better at home, but that’s also a byproduct of them only playing one match on the road. Any time a club makes a change as big as the leap between divisions, there’s going to be changes and a period of feeling out. It’s only a matter of time before NCFC finds their groove.
Player to Watch
Collin Martin – The former San Diego man brings a wealth of experience with him to a younger side. He can anchor the midfield and will be a player that United is familiar with. Martin has the ability to guide those around him and see the field well.
Since a disaster in Charleston, Coach Quill has his side playing among the best they have since his arrival. Riding a three-match win streak in all competitions, the club seems more prepared for this trip east. The club is healthier, including the imminent return of Cristian Nava, and has momentum at its back. Right now, United has to find a way to avoid the same pitfall it ran into back in 2019, league form slipping while in the Cup race.
With this roster though, there seems to be enough of a veteran presence, while getting younger to keep that from happening. United has been finding ways to win and when they control the midfield, allow themselves opportunities to break opponents down. This is where United can do the most damage against NCFC. Play through the middle, draw the defenders out, and make them uncomfortable. If they can do that, then United will return from this East Coast club with three points.
Player to Watch
Nicky Hernandez – Fresh off of a stellar performance in the Open Cup, Hernandez has a chance to continue his command of the midfield against an NCFC side that hasn’t figured itself out. With his ability to drop deep into a central midfield role, Nicky can turn the tide of an attack in an instant.
Coverage of United’s match against North Carolina FC will begin at 4:00 pm MT with Adam Diehl and Andy Hageman on the pre-game show. Kickoff will follow at 5 pm from WakeMed Soccer Park. Catch every minute of every game on ESPN Radio 101.7 FM The TEAM, The TEAM website, and The TEAM apps.