HARRISON, N.J. – Gotham FC hung their second NWSL championship banner in three seasons at Sports Illustrated Stadium but were unable to continue the celebration with a win after a scoreless effort against North Carolina Courage on Saturday evening. The game saw Juan Carlos Amoros’ team push for the game’s opening goal early in the contest and defend heavily late in order to secure the point.
The Courage started the game with a stutter as their passing was quickly picked off by the Gotham attackers. The Gotham combination of Esther Gonzalez, Jordynn Dudley and Katie Lampson pressured the visitors, leading to dangerous moments. Despite pushing for chances, Gotham culdn’t put an effort on target in the first half. This in spite of controlling the ball and pushing the opposition into a defensive posture.
To their credit, the Courage reformed their game plan, playing over the top of the Gotham midfield, as opposed to through it. This saw North Carolina increase their possession stats and force the reigning champs into unfamiliar mistakes in their own half.
Courage head coach Mak Lind changed his team’s shape in the second half, causing Gotham more trouble than in the earlier parts of the contest. Gotham also adjusted, bringing on Tierna Davidson to solidify the defense and Sofia Cook to give the offense a boosted. While it did show flashes of improvement, it wasn’t enough to secure a winning goal.
Gotham finished the game with just one shot on target, hanging on to the scoreless point as North Carolina pressured late in the game. The draw gives Gotham four points in their first two games. While it may seem like a let-down of a result, given the occasion, Gotham continues to show their ability to get points from tough situations.
The turnaround will be quick as Denver Summit will make a trip to Sports Illustrated Stadium on Wednesday night.
STARTING XI: Berger; Dudley (61′ Davidson), Sonnett, Carter, Reale, Howell, McCaskill (76′ Harper), Lavelle (90′ Sommer), Duran (61′ Kitahata), Gonzalez (76′ Cook), Lampson
North Carolina Courage: Sheridan; Williams, Jacobs (84′ Shiragaki), Bell, Rauch (59′ Schmidt), Jackson, Wickenheiser, Staude, Koyama, Sanchez, Betfort (59′ Ijeh)
SCORING SUMMARY:
DISCIPLINE:
79′ (Gotham FC) Khyah Harper – YELLOW CARD
83′ (North Carolina Courage) Riley Jackson – YELLOW CARD
photo from Gotham FC