The Monarchs and Switchbacks both came out in an aggressive attacking style that saw several early chances created by both sides. Lalo Fernandez had an early series of two saves in the 5’, but it was Colorado Springs that eventually broke through first when Masta Kacher hit a superb shot at distance into the upper corner leaving Fernandez with no chance in the 15’.
Less than five minutes later Curinga was called for a hand ball in the box and Aaron King buried the penalty kick to double the Switchbacks lead.
The remainder of the first half continued to be tightly contested with more chances for both sides and defensive highlights for both sides.