ALBUQUERQUE, NM (KRQE) – It’s often said in football that the best team doesn’t always win. A case could be made that was true on Saturday night.

In New Mexico United’s USLC Western Conference semifinal against Las Vegas Lights FC, New Mexico defeated Las Vegas 19-6 and had seven shots on goal compared to the game they just won. New Mexico lost the game 0-1.

With the game scoreless in the closing minutes, extra time seemed likely. Then Las Vegas intercepted a pass in the 86th minute and was able to capitalize on the opportunity in a one-on-one with Alex Tambakis.

“The better team didn’t win tonight, that’s plain and simple,” United head coach Eric Quill said. “We should never have lost this game, given what happened out there. So we don’t take our chances, and they get their one chance and they take it and there it is. But I’m proud of what we were and who we were that night and throughout the season.

With the loss, New Mexico United’s season is now over. The club ended the year with the most wins in its history.

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