What the Washington Spirit did offensively on Saturday is something that has only been done one other time on this squad since the National Women’s Soccer League emerged… namely; score three goals in a game.
After a much needed regrouping following its tough loss against the Western New York Flash a week ago, the Spirit picked up its play, defeating FC Kansas City 3-1 at the Maryland SoccerPlex.
The only other time Washington has scored this many goals in one game was last season when the team defeated the Seattle Reign 4-2 in Seattle. In Saturday’s matchup, Spirit midfielder Diana Matheson scored two of the three Spirit goals; doubling her production from last season’s match against the Reign, when she scored one.
She wasted no time vs. Kansas City, scoring her first goal of the season only four minutes into the first half. Spirit defender Crystal Dunn, who took on a more offensive role in the battle, lost the ball in the box at one point. But it still managed to find its way to Matheson when it was time to score.
Arguably the most memorable play of the contest came in the sixth minute after a questionable penalty kick was called on Washington goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris against Kansas City forward Amy Rodriguez. Forward Lauren Holiday took the kick for KC but Harris made the diving save to her right and was able to punch the ball away from traffic. This play helped ignite an even more unified Spirit team.
With both teams battling for their first win of the season, it was evident that Kansas City — especially frustrated after missing the opportunity nearly handed to them with that penalty kick — would not give up easily. After 28 minutes, Rodriguez put one away. But not without another short skirmish with Harris, who saved Rodriguez’ first shot attempt. Unfortunately, Washington’s disorganized defensive coverage allowed for Rodriguez to capitalize on the rebound ball.
Aside from that one defensive breakdown, the Spirit finally appeared to understand how to defend as a unit. This leadership was spearheaded by U.S. Women’s National player and Spirit midfielder Yael Averbuch, along with U.S. Women’s National Team player and Spirit defender Ali Krieger.
In the 38th minute, Dunn played the ball to Matheson who finished a one-time shot to the upper left corner of the net.
Washington never let Kansas City back in the game.
Spirit midfielder Christine Nairn added the third goal from a free kick called late in the first half, increasing the lead to 3-1. The score remained this way for the remainder of the match.
In the second half, Kansas City had nine shots compared to the Spirit’s two, three of which were on goal. From the refereeing to possessions to scoring opportunities, the second half seemed mostly in Kansas City’s favor. Although the Spirit did maintain the lead, several huge saves from Harris kept the game from ending up far differently.
Regardless, the team pulled out their first home win of the season. They hope to carry this performance into their next match against the Seattle Reign on Wednesday, April 23.