New Mexico United play their first home game in 574 days
New Mexico United had a big game tonight against Austin Bold.
Tailgaters and fans cheered for the first time in almost two years.
“We're going to beat Austin tonight!” said New Mexico United Fan, Andres Lazo.
It's been 574 days since a New Mexico United player ran on the turf.
Players were waiting to hear the chants from fans.
NM United Spokesperson, David Carl said “Kalen Ryden who was our defensive MVP last season said, he came here because he saw the fans and wanted to play in front of those fans. He didn't get to do it last year. So he's finally getting to do it.”
The most excited fans, the ones part of the curse.
The Hype Spirit and Rowdiness chair for The Curse, Billy Anthony said “We are a supporters group. We are here to support our team. So bringing everyone together to be behind the players on the field those 11 guys who are giving it their all on the field. So we want to give it all for them, on the stands.”
Other people during the tailgate expressed what it means to them.
Andres Lazo said “The community. Getting the people, just people coming together having a good time supporting New Mexico and our soccer team.”
True to their saying, “Somos Unidos” fans wanted to send their own message about unity.
“It's not just about the soccer game tonight. It's about hope during this very tough time in the pandemic that we are New Mexicans. We are proud. And we are hopeful for the future that things are going to get better,” Anthony said.
More than 150 people were vaccinated at the NM United tailgate before the match.
A lot of people said getting a free ticket to watch another game was a big incentive to get vaccinated.