The Switchbacks received a miracle in second-half stoppage time on Saturday. Unfortunately for them, their opponents received one as well. 

Colorado Springs forward Khori Bennett converted his second penalty kick of the match to draw level with rival New Mexico United in the fourth minute of stoppage time. But the hosts answered just two minutes later to claim a 3-2 win and their first victory of the season. 

Defensive miscues have been a theme during the young season for Colorado Springs (1-2-1), and Saturday was no different, as United had plenty of space to work with on the game-winning goal. Midfielder Valentin Noel sent the ball into the box for forward Dayonn Harris, who passed it back to trailing defender Ousman Jabang for an open look in the middle of the penalty area. 

With the loss, the Switchbacks remain winless on the road this season at 0-2-1, and winless in their last seven matches against United, including last year’s USL Jägermeister Cup.

Following a scoreless first half, Bennett netted the match’s opening goal in the 57th minute after New Mexico defender Will Seymore conceded a penalty. 

United sought to equalize in the 62nd minute off a header from forward Greg Hurst from six yards out, but Colorado Springs keeper Colin Shutler dove to his left and made the save. 

The hosts wouldn’t be denied however, as two minutes later, Hurst threaded a pass between Colorado Springs defenders to a sprinting Harris for New Mexico’s first goal.

The Switchbacks’ rivals took the lead in the 75th minute off a turnover by Colorado Springs defender Isaiah Foster. Harris retrieved the ball following the miscue and found a trailing Noel whose shot deflected off Switchbacks defender Talen Maples and in. 

Colorado Springs will look to end its two-game skid next week when the club hosts Lexington SC. Before that match, the Switchbacks will try to advance in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup as they host USL League One club Spokane Velocity in the second round of the tournament on Wednesday.