ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico United had control early but couldn’t finish the job Friday night, settling for a 2-2 draw against Indy Eleven at Isotopes Park.
United struck quickly with goals just two minutes apart in the opening half. Luther Archimède opened the scoring in the 16th minute before Greg Hurst added another in the 18th, giving New Mexico a 2-0 lead and putting the home side in position for a key Western Conference victory.
But Indy responded after halftime.
Malik Henry-Scott cut the deficit in half in the 50th minute, shifting momentum toward the visitors. Nine minutes later, Jack Blake found the equalizer, and New Mexico was left searching for a late winner that never came.
Statistically, United controlled much of the match. New Mexico held 72 percent possession, completed 596 accurate passes, and outpassed Indy by more than 400 passes. Despite controlling the ball for long stretches, United could not add to its early advantage.
Head coach Dennis Sanchez said the result should serve as a lesson for the team.
“Sure, it’s a point, but for me, it’s more that we dropped two points at home.”
Sanchez also felt United had opportunities to put the game away before Indy mounted its comeback.
“We want to be killers. If we really play to the discipline that we normally have, that game can end 4-0. Instead, we give them life, and it’s 2-2.”
For Archimède, the goal was a reward for staying patient and continuing to work when opportunities came his way.
“Whether I’m starting or whether I’m on the bench, I just want to help the team the best I can.”
The draw moves New Mexico United to 12 wins, 5 losses, and 5 draws, keeping the club atop the USL Championship Western Conference standings with 41 points.
United now turns its attention to the next match knowing it left points on the table, but still remains in strong position as the playoff race continues.
