Locomotive FC can’t shake New Mexico United late; game ends in 2-2 draw
EL PASO, Texas -- El Paso Locomotive FC passed their first test on Saturday in their return to the field since the coronavirus pandemic halted USL league play.
On Wednesday evening, the Locomotive were back at it as they welcomed rival New Mexico United to Southwest University Park.
It appeared Locomotive FC would be on their way to their second straight victory, leading 2-1, but a penalty kick for New Mexico United late in the game would be the difference in the 2-2 final score.
There were no fans in attendance for the second straight game at Southwest University Park, as the team has decided to prohibit crowds due to growing Covid-19 cases.
Wednesday's match against New Mexico United was the first of a back-to-back series with New Mexico United, and gave El Paso a chance to gain separation in Group C pool play.
Entering the match, El Paso stood alone atop Group C, a point ahead of New Mexico United and Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC.
New Mexico United would get on the board first in the 11' minute after a goal by Chris Wehan.
Wehan was able to find the back of the net following a deflection off of Locomotive FC goalie Logan Ketterer.
Down 1-0 in the first half, Locomotive FC wouldn't find paydirt until the 43' minute after a goal by El Paso native Omar Salgado, 1-1.
Salgado making an impact in his return to the team after serving a two-game suspension stemming from a yellow card in last season's Western Conference Final.
The Locos would then break the deadlock just before the half in extra time following a goal by Andrew Fox.
Locomotive FC would go into the half with 2-1 lead.
The second half would see the Locomotive FC maintain the lead for 30 minutes, but a penalty kick for New Mexico United would see that lead evaporate.
New Mexico's Devon Sandoval would score the goal in the 77' minute following the PK to tie up the game 2-2.
That would be the final score and as a result both teams will walk away with one point each.
The Locomotive FC will now get some much needed rest as they'll return to action Friday, July 24 against New Mexico United once again.
Kick-off for that game is at 7:30 p.m. and will be televised on the El Paso/Las Cruces CW.
