New Mexico United blows 2-0 lead in Albuquerque draw with Indy Eleven

New Mexico United blew a 2-0 first-half lead and settled for a 2-2 draw with Indy Eleven at home in Albuquerque on Saturday night. The result cost United a chance to pick up full points at home, according to head coach Dennis Sanchez.

United struck early. In the 16th minute, Luther Archimède headed in off the crossbar following a free kick to give United a 1-0 lead, marking his first goal of the season. Two minutes later, Greg Hurst doubled the advantage with an individual effort, his eighth goal of the season.

Indy Eleven then fought back, erasing the two-goal deficit to earn a point on the road.

“I think you have a 2-0 lead at home and you’re giving it up, and in fairness, they had chances to win the game,” Sanchez said.

Sanchez said United moved away from the style that built the early lead.

“I think we went away from us. We went away from playing. We went away from control, with and without the ball, and we have to use this as a learning moment,” Sanchez said.

Sanchez framed the draw as a missed opportunity rather than a gain.

“Sure, it’s a point, but for me, it’s more that we dropped two points at home,” Sanchez said.

United faces a quick turnaround. The team plays Wednesday against Birmingham Legion FC, then returns home next Saturday to host the Colorado Springs Switchbacks.