New Mexico United lost 1-0 to Pittsburgh Riverhounds after conceding in the 73rd minute, despite controlling much of the possession and facing several close calls throughout the match in an intense USL Championship contest.
According to ESPN Sport 101.7 "THE TEAM", New Mexico United’s difficulties on the East Coast persisted as they fell 1-0 to the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. Despite sticking to their strategy of inviting pressure and controlling possession, United failed to create meaningful chances. Their efforts to impose their style did not trouble the Riverhounds, who took full advantage of United’s mistakes.
Although Pittsburgh Riverhounds only had 33% possession in the first half, they dictated the tempo and consistently found ways to threaten United’s defense. Augie Williams was especially dangerous, nearly scoring with a header in the 24th minute and repeatedly finding space in wide areas. The Riverhounds hit the woodwork three times before finally scoring the decisive goal.
A notable moment came in the 26th minute when Augie Williams collided with United’s Will Seymore in a challenge that could have seen harsher punishment. Later, Williams had another big chance in the 62nd minute after a missed offside call, but his shot hit the post. The officials’ decisions, coupled with United’s defensive lapses, added to the drama of the match.
Williams was named Player of the Match for his constant threat and involvement in Pittsburgh’s attack, even though he didn’t score. The winning goal came in the 73rd minute when a turnover allowed Danny Griffin to set up Robbie Mertz, who scored on the rebound. With 5,626 fans in attendance, Pittsburgh secured a hard-fought victory, leaving United to regroup before their next game at home against Charleston Battery.
Editor's note: The original article appears on https://www.1017theteam.com/, written by Seth Biddulph.
