A Light Preview: Match #34 vs. New Mexico United
The 2019 season will conclude for Las Vegas Lights FC with an away match vs. New Mexico United.
After their home defeat vs. Reno 1868 FC last week, the Las Vegas Lights FC are virtually guaranteed to miss the playoffs this season. Tonight, they close out the 2019 campaign on the road against New Mexico United FC.
Looking at the Lights (11-14-8)
The Lights will look to sweep the season series against New Mexico United when they travel to Alburquerque tonight. Back in June, NMU came to Las Vegas in a top-3 position in the Western Conference and got blown out by the Lights, 5-1.
Now, the Lights will have the chance to hand them another loss, a more damaging defeat. That’s because New Mexico United sit just below the playoff line and they need at least a draw and San Antonio FC to lose vs. bottom-of-the-table Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC.
Eric Wynalda will be looking for his team to play with passion and urgency, despite their season not ending with a playoff berth. I’d guess there’s not a lot of stone-cold locks to return to this team next season and the players will need to showcase their fight and ability for their coach in the last time in 2019.
Who you should know: New Mexico United (10-10-13)
Santi Moar: He’s been a gamechanger for New Mexico this season, often breaking down the defense with his dribbling ability. The Spaniard has 11 goals, five assists, and 49 chances created. He has a team-high 75 shots, over 20 more than the second-most on the club.
Chris Wehan: With 61 key passes this season, Wehan is the playmaker for NMU. He has six goals and nine assists.
Devon Sandoval: The reigning USL Championship Player of the Month, Sandoval scored six goals, including two game-winners, in September. That brought his total to 11 for the year.
KeVaughn Frater: Top ten in the league in goals, Frater’s 14 goals have paced the club, despite a lot of those coming early in the year.
The Deets
Tonight, 6:30 PM Pacific time, at Isotopes Park
Las Vegas Lights FC at New Mexico United
