NJ/NY Gotham FC wins high scoring match with rival Spirit

July 21, 2021

In what would prove to be the highest scoring NWSL match up of the weekend, it would be Gotham FC walking away with the 3-2 win on the road.

The game would have an interesting start with earliest red card issued in NWSL history with Sam Staab of the Washington Spirit getting sent off in the 7th minute of the match.

The Spirit would get the scoring started in the 13th minute when Trinity Rodman would slot a ball past DiDi Haracic. Ten minutes later Gotham FC would respond when Nahomi Kawasumi would punch in a blocked shot off Ifeoma Onumonu into the back of the net. Gotham FC would close out the first half scoring when captain McCall Zerboni would head in a ball off of a Caprice Dydasco cornerkick.

The second half would start with the Spirit drawing even with Gotham FC after a free kick from Ashley Sanchez. In the 76th minute when rookie Delanie Sheehan found an open Ifeoma Onumonu, who would send in a cross to Midge Purce which would turn out to be the game winner.

“It was one that got the hearts racing a little bit. Obviously having ten players for Washington made a big difference. That always makes it difficult to break down sides that look to drop in, keep it compact, and then catch you on the transitional moments. Credit to them for staying in the game in that way and making it very difficult for us to score. Bit of a nail biter but managed to have the quality of the final call for the third goal which was pleasing and making sure we have players and runners in the box. Great competitive game all around. Happy to come away with three points,” said Head Coach Freya Coombe.

NJ/NY Gotham FC Returns Home

NJ/NY Gotham FC returns home this Sunday to take on rival, Chicago Red Stars at 5pm from Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ. Those unable to attend the matchup can catch the action on Paramount+. Jersey Sporting News continues to provide coverage of NJ/NY Gotham FC throughout the year.