Janice R. Andrews
New Mexico United won handily, making their first-ever home game a triumphant spectacle of skill and camaraderie. The Yellow team dwarfed the Black team. At the First Financial Training Center in Mesa del Sol, in front of an ecstatic audience, United displayed their potential with goals from Nanan Houssou and Marco Micaletto, who led the charge with incredible finishes with help from Jacobo Reyes.
The yearly Black and Yellow Game provided athletes with an opportunity to display their skills in addition to giving spectators a sneak peek at the 2024 squad. The Yellow team stole the show among the sea of fans wearing the team’s colors, completing scoring opportunities with style and accuracy.
Micaletto said, “It was a lot of fun,” as he considered the electrifying environment. “Seeing all these people come out for a scrimmage, I can’t wait for the season to start.”
After every score, the stadium was filled with applause, chants, and bursts of yellow smoke, demonstrating the passionate intensity of United’s supporters throughout the game. Even though he took on a more watchful stance, coach Eric Quill gained insightful knowledge about player dynamics and possible lineup combinations.
Quill said, “I got some good intel today.” This was helpful as we’re still figuring out who will be in our best lineup. Like the supporters, I too hoped to see some goals.”
The Yellow side took the lead 1-0 in the 43rd minute when Houssou scored a goal based on a deflected shot and slotted the ball into the corner of the net. Micaletto scored a brilliant finish to increase the lead early in the second half, and Reyes’ thundering left-wing goal put the game out of reach.
Standout performances were also possible throughout the show, as seen by goalie Cole Bachezewski’s spectacular stop of a penalty kick, which delighted the spectators. Standing in the Yellow team’s goal, Kris Shakes demonstrated his skill by keeping a clean sheet, highlighting the wealth of quality in United’s squad.
Looking ahead, Quill approaches the match with an emphasis on honing tactics and building cohesiveness throughout the team. United will play their last preseason game against rivals El Paso Locomotive FC.
“Today was fun, but that one is more about preparation for the season,” said Quill. “We’ll probably go with our regulars and try to start building cohesiveness and momentum.”
United is eager to make a statement in their pursuit of success and hopes to build on their strong home debut in their upcoming opening match against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on March 9. The regular season is quickly approaching.
