Memphis 901 FC can finally check off their season goal as they host a first-round play-off match.

The Beale Street Boys defeated New Mexico United 3-2 to earn their third straight top four finish. Memphis finished in third place after Colorado Springs scored a late winner against Sacramento Republic.

New Mexico had secured first place in the Western Conference for weeks, but was winless in its last four games. They wanted to build momentum ahead of the play-offs in front of their home crowd. Instead, it was Memphis who immediately put one into the back of the net in the second minute.

Bruno Lapa settled on the right flank and delivered a precise pass to Jon Bakero at the near post. The mid-season striker chose a perfect moment to score his first goal for the club, but the first half was full of back-and-forth play.

New Mexico’s equalizer came in the 22nd minute, a goal that also came from the right flank. Will Seymour got a long ball over the top, dribbled past Akeem Ward and assisted Greg Hurst inside the six-yard box.

Samuel Careaga did not let the stalemate last long. He responded two minutes later with a determined attack down the field. His left-footed, low-driven shot was too much for the goalkeeper.

New Mexico had the advantage in the possession battle for the rest of the half, but couldn’t get much out of it. There were only five shots in total between the two teams, but every shot on target resulted in a goal.

The second half followed a similar tune to start until Memphis found a breakthrough. A Lucas Turci rocket gave Memphis a much-needed insurance goal.