INTERNATIONAL SOCCER: New Mexico United edges FC Juarez in friendly, 1-0

NATIONAL SOCCER NEWS: www.nationalsoccernetwork.com

ALBERQUERQUE, N.M. – New Mexico United bested Liga MX giants FC Juarez on Wednesday night, finishing the evening with a 1-0 advantage in the international friendly.

Thanks to Thomas Amang’s first goal for the club and a clean sheet from Kris Shakes, New Mexico United held on for the non-league win.

The victory avenges a 4-2 loss last season in the same fixture, and gives United the edge in the all-time series after they won a preseason match in Juarez this year.

Amang got the scoring started -- and finished – in the 32nd minute after the two sides traded punches for the first half hour. An excellent diagonal ball from Chris Gloster found Amang, who tapped back for Marlon Vargas in the box. Vargas cut onto his right foot, before sliding the return ball between two defenders to an open Amang, who fired on the right foot for his first United goal.

Shakes was tested once in the first half on a shot from range that seemed to take him by surprise. A quick reaction allowed him to tap the shot over the bar.

At halftime United made nine changes, including opportunities for several Academy players. Kyle Hofmann shone brightly on the left side as an outside marking back, chasing several attackers away from goal and earning several clearances to help Shakes preserve the clean sheet.

New Mexico United returns home this Saturday, as they take on Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC in the Jagermeister Cup. The match will be United’s Pride on the Pitch contest. Kick-off is scheduled for 7 p.m.

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