GAME DAY: NM UNITED AT INDY ELEVEN
PLAYERS TO WATCH
New Mexico (4-2-4): United’s attack roared to life in Tuesday’s 7-0 win over depleted Phoenix Rising FC, but stout defense has been the club’s calling card this season. Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis has posted back-toback shutouts since returning from injury and his four clean sheets rank fifth in the USLC — despite his missing three league matches. Defender Kalen Ryden’s return from injury has bolstered a unit that is tied for the fewest goals allowed (7) in the league. New Mexico’s attack will likely be bolstered by the return of Neco Brett from a stint with Jamaica’s national team.
Indy (5-3-2): Saturday’s match will be United’s first against Indy Eleven but there are quite a few familiar faces on the home team’s roster. Goalkeeper Elliot Panicco posted a solid year for Austin Bold last season and has played well for Indy on loan from MLS Nashville SC. Panicco ranks eighth in the USLC with 25 saves and has a pair of clean sheets. Indy Eleven recently added former two-time USLC MVP Solomon Asante, who scored 54 goals in four seasons with Phoenix Rising FC. Asante made his first appearance as a substitute last week against New York Red Bulls II.
NOTEWORTHY: Midfielder Justin Portillo picked up his first two United goals Tuesday against Phoenix (both on penalty kicks), but he continues to be a key cog in NMU’s attack. Portillo shares the team lead with three assists (Daniel Bruce also has three) and he continues to lead the USLC in chances created with 33. No one else has reached 30. Nicky Law leads Indy Eleven with 14 chances created.