Before more than 10,000 roaring fans at Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park, New Mexico United made history — advancing to the USL Championship Western Conference Final for the first time in club history with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Orange County SC.
The electric atmosphere set the tone for a night that will live forever in United lore — a night defined by heart, resilience, and a dramatic finish worthy of the moment.
From the opening whistle, playoff intensity filled the air. Orange County pressed early, but goalkeeper Kris Shakes stood tall, delivering a stellar first-half performance that included two key saves to keep the visitors scoreless. His diving stop in the 20th minute drew a roar from the crowd and set the defensive tone.
United struck first just after halftime. In the 49th minute, Greg Hurst saw his initial header crash off the crossbar — but he stayed alert, burying the rebound to put United up 1-0. The goal marked Hurst’s 26th for the club, moving him into second on United’s all-time scoring list and notching his eighth of the season.
Orange County fought back, equalizing in the 68th minute off a corner kick to quiet the crowd — but only briefly.
As stoppage time ticked away, The Lab erupted into pure chaos. In the 93rd minute, Dayonn Harris latched onto a perfectly placed pass from Valentin Noël and rifled home the dramatic game-winner, sealing a 2-1 victory and sending United to their first-ever Western Conference Final.
When the final whistle blew, the stadium exploded. Scarves waved, smoke filled the air, and history was written under the lights in Albuquerque.
Standout Performers:
Greg Hurst — Scored United’s opener and moved to second on the club’s all-time goal list with 26. His energy, composure, and persistence up top kept Orange County on their toes.
Dayonn Harris — Delivered the match-winning goal in stoppage time, capping off a relentless attacking display. His pace and determination made the difference when it mattered most.
Stats Summary: NM/OC
Shots: 13/10
Shots on Goal: 4/3
Saves: 2/2
Corners Won: 4/6
Fouls: 12/9
Misconduct Summary:
NM: Talen Maples (Yellow Card – 91’)
What’s Next:
With the historic win, New Mexico United advanced to the Western Conference Final of the USL Championship Playoffs, the deepest postseason run in club history. The Black & Yellow will look to keep their momentum alive where they will travel to Oklahoma facing off against FC Tulsa. Saturday November 15th at 6:30 PM MT
