Photo copyright Russell Lansford-Imagn Images
Gotham FC edged closer to the NWSL Shield with a 2-1 win over Orlando Pride on Sunday, while Kansas City Current defeated Washington Spirit 2-1 and San Diego Wave FC drew 2-2 with Boston Legacy FC.
The results put Gotham atop the standings with 58 points, three ahead of San Diego with one game remaining. Gotham has the Shield in the spotlight, but Sunday’s draw in San Diego means the race isn’t over yet.
Gotham took the lead in Orlando through Midge Purce in the 22nd minute, then doubled their lead when Tierna Davidson scored in the 62nd. Solai Washington pulled one back for the Pride three minutes later, but Gotham held on for a 2-1 win. The win requires just one point in their last match to secure the Gotama Shield.
Kansas City’s win over Washington also affected the playoff picture. The Spirit took the lead in the 12th minute through Clara Luwanga, but Cari responded quickly, with Lo’eau LaBonta equalizing in the 14th minute before Vanessa DiBernardo put Kansas City ahead three minutes later. The 2-1 win earned the Cari three valuable points as both teams look to strengthen their post-season positions heading into the final matchday.
The final game of the day saw San Diego and Boston trade goals in a lively second half. Boston took the lead through Annie Karich in the 48th minute, but Gia Corley equalized for the Wave three minutes later. San Diego took the lead in the 54th minute with an own goal by Boston defender Lais Araujo, and Alba Canyo tied the game for Boston in the 73rd minute to make it 2-2.
The draw leaves San Diego with 55 points, three behind Gotham with one regular season game remaining.
Gotham’s path to the Shield is simple: A win or tie against the Utah Royals on Judgment Day will secure the trophy. A loss would give San Diego a chance to tie the score with a win over Bay FC, potentially with the Shield decided by the league’s tie procedures.
All NWSL matches will begin next Sunday at 5pm ET for Decision Day.
