Throughout the 2025 season, Kris Shakes proved to be reliable and electrifying for New Mexico United. From high-pressure playoff moments to Saves of the Week nominations, Shakes has delivered when the stakes were high. His athleticism, quick reactions, and calm composure helped anchor United’s back line and produced some of the most memorable highlights of the year. Here are the top five moments that defined his standout season.
5. Back-Leg Stop – October 4th vs. Phoenix (Save of the Week Nominee)
In a rivalry match with stakes and intensity, Shakes made one of his most creative stops, using his back leg to deflect a close-range attempt that seemed destined to find the net. The save ultimately lead to a 1-0 win claiming the clean sheet, and clinching a spot in the 2025 USL Championship Playoffs. The play earned him a Save of the Week nomination.
4. Full-Stretch Swat – September 20 vs. Monterey Bay
One of his most athletic saves of the season, Shakes went full extension to swat away a shot headed toward the upper corner. A pure reaction stop that demonstrated his explosiveness and reach.
3. Double Save in the Western Conference Semifinals – November 8 vs. Orange County
In one of the season’s defining highlights, Kris Shakes delivered an incredible double save in the semifinal, springing back up instantly after the first stop. These saves helped propel the Black & Yellow to the USL Western Conference finals for the first time in club history.
2. First Professional Penalty Save – September 24 vs. Colorado Springs
A major milestone and one of the top highlights of his season. Shakes guessed correctly, and punched away the first penalty kick save of his professional career, an effort that was also nominated for Save of the Week.
1. Playoff Clean Sheet in the First Round – November 1 vs. San Antonio
In Shakes’ first career playoff start, he recorded a clean sheet. That was highlighted by a spectacular diving save to deny a powerful header from San Antonio. This set the tone for the remainder of the match that eventually lead to a 2-0 victory, advancing New Mexico to the USL Western Conference Semi-final.
Kris Shakes’ 2025 season was defined by consistency, confidence, and delivering in big moments. Each of these highlights showed his shot-stopping ability, and his growth as a leader and difference maker between the posts. With Shakes officially re-signed for the 2026 USL Championship season, New Mexico United can move forward knowing their dependable goalkeeper will continue to anchor the back line, with his biggest performances still ahead.
