Game Preview: Runners Hit the Road for a Colorado Double Header

Rio Rancho, NM (December 14, 2019) – After an exciting 12-5 home opener win over the Austin Power last Saturday, the Runners take their first road trip of the season in a double header weekend in Colorado.

First match up is against the Colorado Rumble (0-1) at the Foothills Fieldhouse in Denver, CO today at 7 PM MT. This will be the fourth time in franchise history that New Mexico will face the Rumble. Last season the Runners bested the Rumble 2 out of the 3 meet ups. 

Second game in the double header weekend features the Runners taking on the Colorado Inferno FC (0-1) on Sunday December 15th with a 3 PM MT kick. The Sunday meet up between the two teams marks the fourth time they will see each other with the Inferno having a two game win record against New Mexico's one.

Firing On All Cylinders: Midfielder Luis Fernando Martinez dominated in New Mexico's first game of the season officially with 4 goals, 1 assist and 5 points on the season. Martinez was a late bloomer last season as he didn't hit his stride until halfway through the season. This season is a different story, with the prediction of a potential MVP candidate if he continues on this path.

New Blood: With many new faces on the New Mexico squad this season, one to watch is Forward/Midfielder Froilan Ramirez. This is his second season playing in the MASL2 where he played with the 1-season and now defunct Santa Fe Elite. Ramirez showcased his skills in the season opener against Austin with a hat trick and 1 assist to give him 4 points on the season. Don't take your eyes off of Ramirez.

The Return: Forward Jaime "Chiva" Rodriguez returned to the field and held up his league MVP credential in classic fashion against the Power last Saturday. Chiva scored himself 3 goals and has mentioned numerous times that he is focused on being the back to back league MVP titleholder. Last season he had 41 goals and 11 assists.

What To Watch For: This weekend will be a test of the stamina for the Runners. Having back to back games does take its toll on the body. If they play as well as they did last Saturday, there will be plenty of fuel in the tank for a solid 3 shifts in both games. Capitalizing on power plays will be key for New Mexico in order to control the pace of the game.

Watch Runners vs Rumble:  https://tinyurl.com/NMRvsCORwatch