New Mexico United defeat Phoenix Rising 2-0 in USL playoff opener

New Mexico United eliminated Phoenix Rising from the USL Championship playoffs with a 2-0 victory on Sunday at The Lab in Albuquerque.

The match began with a two-hour delay due to rain, but United took control early. Greg Hurst tapped in a pass just six and a half minutes into the game to give the home team a 1-0 lead. The goal moved Hurst past the previous record holder to become the club’s all-time leading scorer.

Jake LaCava extended the lead in the second half. He struck the ball into the net in the 48th minute, marking his first career professional goal. United’s defense limited Phoenix Rising to two red cards during the contest. Jean Eric Moursou received the first card in the 52nd minute, followed by Gunnar Studenthofft in the 75th minute.

Head coach Dennis Sanchez praised the fans for remaining at the stadium despite the weather delay. He noted that the crowd’s support made the home environment difficult for the visiting team to handle.

“Every win, regardless of who we’re playing, playing at home is special,” Sanchez said. “On a night like tonight where it was delayed for, what, two plus hours? Look, we’re the real ones there. Day one. They’re lifers. We feel their love, we feel their support.”

United will host Colorado Springs in the semifinals next Saturday at The Lab. The team will look to continue its playoff run in front of its home supporters.