United is back in action: Here's what to watch Saturday vs. Sacramento Republic

Saturday night at Isotopes Park could have something of a red-carpet feel.

Needing a win to climb back into a playoff position, New Mexico United will host USL Championship Western Conference-leading Sacramento Republic FC. United (7-7-4) is riding a four-game unbeaten streak in league play, but has not played a USLC match since July 8 and slipped into a three-way tie for eighth in the conference standings during the interim.

United figures to have its hands full against Sacramento (9-2-8), which ranks among the league’s best in numerous statistical areas. None of that is lost on United coach Eric Quill.

“They’ve got some weapons up front and they’re very stingy defensively,” Quill said, “only 12 goals allowed, one of the top defenses in the league. It’s a very good Sacramento team.”

Republic FC has not always been at its best on the road (2-1-5) and figures to face a loud and rowdy contingent of United fans Saturday night. Adding to an attractive on-field matchup, it will be New Mexico’s annual Meow Wolf Night, with players sporting special alternate uniforms and many fans likely showing up in costume or new alternate-style jerseys.

United has also had ample time to prepare. Most of its front-line players sat out at least half of Wednesday’s international friendly against Sunderland AFC, and defender Milo Garvanian — who scored in NMU’s 3-2 loss — is looking forward to facing a first-place foe.

“We’ve been really focused in training,” Garvanian said. “We had a little time off and I think everyone’s refreshed and sharp for Saturday. I think we’re ready.”

Here are five things to look for before during and after Saturday’s showdown.

FANS, FLAGS AND FIREWORKS: Spectators undoubtedly will be hoping for on-field entertainment, but additional drawing cards are in place. The first 3,000 fans entering Isotopes Park will receive Meow Wolf Night flags and a postgame fireworks display is scheduled. Republic FC is used to playing in front of large crowds, ranking third in USLC average home attendance (9,740 per game). United (9,951) is second to Louisville (10,516).

DE-FENSE! New Mexico will face a challenge trying to solve Republic FC goalkeeper Danny Vitiello, who has posted seven clean sheets in 18 appearances this season, the league’s second-best total.

Quill remained optimistic.

“We’re creating a lot of chances right now,” Quill said, “high-quality chances. If we continue to do that, we’re going to score goals.”

Quill was more concerned about shoring up his team’s defense and said he’s not satisfied with only three clean sheets this season. On the upside, two of those shutouts came in United’s last three matches, and goalkeeper Alex Tambakis has played well of late.

Vitiello and Tambakis are tied for ninth in the USLC with 46 saves apiece.

LAS VEGAS LOANER: Fans will not see forward Josh Dolling Saturday as NMU last week agreed to send him to Las Vegas Lights on loan for the rest of the season. Dolling set a club record with three assists in an April 29 match against Orange County but he had not appeared in a match since June 21.

STEADY PACE: Sacramento is tied with Pittsburgh for the fewest losses (2) in USLC play. Republic FC also is tied for the second-most draws in the league (8) and has tied its last three contests. Only Rio Grande Valley has more draws (9) this season.

FLASHY THREADS: Fans began lining up outside the United team store on Friday morning to purchase the new Meow Wolf jerseys, which went on sale in the afternoon. They’ll also be sold on the concourse during Saturday’s match and online beginning Sunday.