After a bit of a breather Gotham FC started up NWSL action on the best note possible, with a huge victory against one of the best teams in the NWSL in the Orlando Pride by a final of 3-1.
As the ladies played in a UKG Challenge Cup match there were a ton of emotions the ladies navigated through. Especially in honoring their captain and leader Ali Kreiger playing her last game at Exploria Stadium.
Ali played with the Orlando pride from the 2017-21 seasons, and after a wonderful soccer career announced her retirement after this season.
Things started off on a strong note for the Pride, as Megan Montefusco opened up the scoring.
From there Gotham FC goalkeeper Mandy Haught started to find her groove and make several huge saves, including a moment int he 28th minute in stopping a shot that was heading towards the bottom right corner.
Gotham FC fans are encouraged to check out the following video featuring thoughts from Head Coach Juan Carlos Amorós, along with Goalkeeper Mandy Haught and Forward/Midfielder Yazmeen Ryan.…video is compliments of Gotham FC
Thanks to the positive momentum of the squad and their resilience the offense tied things up in the 35th minute, on a goal by Jenna Nighswonger. Nighswonger has been one of the more impressive rookies in the NWSL and is a possible candidate for Rookie of the Year Awards thanks to her play.
Then it was goals in the 55th minute by McCall Zerboni and Yazmeen Ryan that sent Gotham into the winners circle.
The Gotham FC continues UKG Challenge Cup Play with the battle of NWSL East Coast Rivals as the ladies take on the Washington Spirit at Audi Field on Friday, July 28. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.
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