HARRISON, N.J. – Gotham FC drop their second straight game, this time at home against the San Diego Wave on Friday night at SI Stadium. The game’s only goal came from 17 year-old rookie Kimmi Ascanio in the first half. While Gotham pressed for an equalizer, sharpness was their enemy as they were unable to capitalize on the chances created.
Early in the first half Gotham FC was in control of the game as they forced San Diego into bad decision in the midfield. They played well on the counter, stretching the Wave but not being able to put decent chances on goal. San Diego grew into the contest, expanding their wing-play and forcing Gotham into a more defensive shell.
The game’s only goal came in the 30th minute when Ascanio nearly lost the ball between her legs following a pass into the box from Perle Morroni. The youngster recovered before dribbling into the box and putting the ball past Gotham goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger. Gotham pushed on, creating chances from Midge Purce and Esther Gonzalez. Neither could find the accuracy to deeply trouble the Wave goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan.
Gotham continued their pressure in the second half, bringing on Bruninha before the 70th minute and forward Khyah Harper to increase their chances of finding a goal. Unfortunately, it didn’t materialize as San Diego’s defense pushed them to the wings and stifled their offense.
It is three consecutive games now that Gotham has been unable to score a goal, having been shut out by Chicago, Racing Louisville and San Diego. The high-powered offense that littered the month of April with goals has run dry for the moment, leaving head coach Juan Carlos Amoros searching for answers.
Next up for Gotham is a break from league play as they travel to Mexico for the Concacaf Champions Cup. They’ll play in the semi final against Club America this Wednesday evening.
STARTING XI:
Gotham FC: Berger; Freeman (62′ Bruninha), Carter (74′ Schupansky), Sonnett, Reale (62′ Torres), Martin, Geyse (75′ Nyamekye), Howell, Purce (74′ Harper), Stevens, Gonzalez
San Diego Wave: Sheridan; Lundkvist, McNabb, Armstrong, Morroni, McCaskill, Dali, Cascarino, Corley (90′ Robbe), Leon (62′ Carusa), Ascanio (85′ Barcenas)
SCORING SUMMARY:
30′ (San Diego Wave) Kimmi Ascanio (1) assisted by Perle Morroni
DISCIPLINE:
6′ (San Diego Wave) Kenza Dali – YELLOW CARD
90′ (Gotham FC) Khyah Harper – YELLOW CARD
photo from Gotham FC