The rain cleared in Washington, D.C. just in time for the Spirit and Angel City FC to face off during Salute to Service Night at Audi Field. The Spirit's 4-2 victory propelled them into second place on the NWSL Table with 21 points (7-3-0) as of Saturday night.
The evening was marked by significant milestones, including a new club record for the Spirit with four first-half goals and the historic start of sisters Alyssa and Gisele Thompson for Angel City FC, the first time siblings have started together in an NWSL match.
From the opening whistle, the Spirit demonstrated their intent by pressing high and effectively connecting in the final third. Midfielder Croix Bethune nearly scored early on with a shot that skimmed the left goal post. Forward Trinity Rodman opened the scoring in the ninth minute with a one-touch goal from an Ouleye Sarr assist, marking Sarr’s second assist of the season.
Angel City quickly retaliated, creating chaos in the Spirit's box and forcing an own goal by defender Annaïg Butel in the 20th minute. Shortly after, forward Sydney Leroux headed in a free kick, giving Angel City a brief lead. Leroux, who scored the first-ever goal against the Spirit in 2013, notched her 44th career goal, moving her up to 10th all-time in NWSL history.
Despite falling behind, the Spirit maintained their high press. Rodman scored her second goal of the match in the 30th minute, leveling the score and achieving her second regular season brace. This feat pushed her past Crystal Dunn for third in club history for regular season goals. Defender Casey Kruger joined the scoring in the 34th minute, capitalizing on a series of shots within the Angel City box for her first goal of the year. Just two minutes later, Sarr secured the Spirit's fourth goal, assisted by Bethune, who matched the club record for single-season assists with six.
The first half concluded with a historic six goals within the first 36 minutes, setting a new NWSL record for the fastest six goals from kickoff.
The second half was a more balanced affair, with the first major scoring opportunity coming from Angel City forward Alyssa Thompson in the 58th minute. Angel City dominated the shot count during this period until Spirit goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury made a crucial diving save in the 60th minute. Ashley Hatch then had a near-miss, hitting a shot just over the crossbar.
As the game grew more physical, Angel City accumulated three yellow cards. Despite their efforts, they couldn't overcome the Spirit's lead, and the match ended 4-2. This victory marked the Spirit’s seventh win, equaling their regular season total from the previous year. Additionally, the Spirit extended their unbeaten streak when leading at halftime to 24 matches.
Looking ahead, the Spirit will face Seattle Reign FC next Friday, May 24 at 7:30 p.m. EDT in a special Pitchside Pups match. Tickets are available for fans eager to support their team.
NWSL Match Report
Match: Washington Spirit vs. Angel City FC
Date: Saturday, May 18, 2024
Venue: Audi Field (Washington, D.C.)
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. EDT
Weather: Overcast, mid-60s
Scoring Summary:
Lineups:
Misconduct Summary:
