Heading into Saturday, New Mexico United has a seven-point cushion and only eleven matches to play before the playoffs begin. It’s time for the race to the finish and the magic numbers have begun. After the win on Saturday, United’s number sits at 18 points. That’s all they need to clinch the playoffs.
The Colorado Springs Switchbacks will try to slow down United’s push to the top. As they themselves are fighting for a potential top four seed in the West, they should be looking to bolster an inconsistent attack. Instead, just this week they announced the transfer out of Maalique Foster, a dynamic winger. In their past five matches, the Switchbacks have only won once, which makes the transfer even more questionable.
Even with the departure of Foster, the Switchbacks still have Ronaldo Damus that they can rely on up top. Damus has been one of the top strikers in the league over the past several years, but has had a hard go of it against United. United has found ways to slow him down and keep him from getting clean looks. Where clubs have had success against United lately has been by controlling the midfield. This is an area the the Switchbakcs have done well at times this season. If they’re able to slow United down and force turnovers, it will for United to turn back and defend in transition.
Player to Watch
Devon Williams – Outside of Foster, the majority of the chances for Switchbacks have come from the Jamaican midfielder. His vision has allowed him to pick apart passing lanes and find Damus in the final third. This pairing will be one to watch on Saturday night.
Ater picking up seven points form a possible nine last week, United awarded Head Coach Eric Quill with a new two year contract. While terms of the deal were not disclosed, the contract will keep Quill in Albuquerque through the end of the 2026 season. It’s a well deserved extension and only part of the reason why United should be brimming with confidence ahead of the trip to Weidner Field. Historically United has done very well at Weidner and overall leads the series against the Switchbacks. This season has been good to the Colorado based club at home with seven of their nine wins being on their home pitch.
With that stat in minde, United has a chance to make another statement on the road. They won last week in Indianapolis and can potentially widen the gap to second place with three points. United has certianly played with more confidence in recent matches, but they’ve still made their own issues. Against a creative side like Switchbacks, United has to be switched on in the defensive third and can’t allow silly mistakes. They need to force Damus to the outside and don’t let him run through the middle. If they can do that, they’ll open up chances to get forward and put some goals on the hosts.
Player to Watch
Kalen Ryden – Although he’s dealt with injuries this season, Ryden has come on strong in recent weeks. He owes that to the more regular playing time that he’s receiving. If Ryden gets the start, he’ll have the armband and be tasked with organizing the back line against some dynamic attackers. If they can hold steady, they should have a good night.
Coverage of the match against Colorado Springs will begin at 6 p.m. (MT) with Adam Diehl and Andy Hageman on the pregame show. Following the pregame, kickoff will take place at 7 p.m. (MT). Catch every minute of every play of New Mexico United’s season on ESPN Radio 101.7 FM The TEAM, The TEAM website, and The TEAM apps.