April 18, 2024

Big second half propels Bandits to 12-7 comeback win at New Mexico

Photo courtesy of the Kansas Bandits.

RIO RANCHO–Kansas exploded for nine second-half goals and erased a three-goal halftime deficit en route to a 12-7 victory over New Mexico Saturday at the Rio Rancho Events Center.

Kansas traded goals with New Mexico in the first half until the Runners were able to net three in a row to end the first half, sending the Bandits into the break with a 6-3 hole.

Tamagachi Ryota dazzled in his Bandits debut and scored five times–three of which came within a span of 80 seconds. It was part of the response as Kansas scored six straight times to open the second half.

Antonio De La Torre also scored three times for Kansas and added two assists.

Mershad Ahmadi notched a hat trick for New Mexico.

Kansas outshot New Mexico 28-21 overall in the match and the Roadrunners were held to just nine shots in the second half.

Saturday’s win marked the organization’s first-ever road victory.

The Bandits improve to 2-4 and return to action Sunday, Feb. 19 when they travel to Amarillo. Kickoff is slated for 6 p.m. CT.