ALBUQUERQUE, NM New Mexico United advanced to the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in dominant fashion on Tuesday night, topping in-state opponent UDA NMSU by a 6-0 final behind a hat trick from Josh Dolling. The match was the first in the Cup’s more-than-100-year history to feature two New Mexican teams, and was played at Rio Rancho High School.
The scoring started early for the Black & Yellow, as Jose Sosa - making his professional debut - tucked home in the third minute off an excellent low cross from Daniel Bruce. United continued to apply pressure, and Justin Portillo doubled the advantage from the penalty spot in the 40th minute after Greg Hurst was taken down in the box. That margin would remain through the end of the half.
Dolling began his crusade just three minutes into the second half, tapping home from close range for his first score of the evening. Just five minutes later, Dolling’s countryman, Bruce, hit one from long distance for the goal of the night. Then in the 60th minute, it was Dolling again - this one from the penalty spot, after Bruce was taken down. And then, in the 73rd minute, Dolling completed the hat trick with a touch around the goalkeeper for a 6-0 margin that would hold for the remainder of the evening.
Several players made their United debuts Tuesday night. Milo Garvanian, Kyle Colonna, Jose Sosa, Michael Wyparlo, Dolling, and Merritt all played their first official matches in the Black & Yellow.
About New Mexico United
New Mexico United, the state’s first professional soccer franchise, brings the most popular sport in the world home to the Land of Enchantment. Fueled by a passion for community, New Mexico United’s promise is to provide a platform that brings New Mexicans together for a unique sporting experience, celebrating the unity and excitement inherent in world-class soccer. www.newmexicoutd.com