The Washington Spirit fell 2-1 to the Kansas City Current on Oct. 25 at CPKC Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. Clara Luvanga scored early for Washington, netting her second career NWSL goal in the 12th minute, but Lo’eau LaBonta and Vanessa DiBernardo scored for Kansas City to complete a comeback win.
This match was Washington’s final regular-season away game. The Spirit registered 12 shots, with three on goal, while the Current took seven shots with an equal three on target.
Kansas City overcomes early Washington lead
Kansas City created the first clear chance in the eighth minute, but Spirit goalkeeper Sandy MacIver saved a shot from midfielder Croix Bethune. Four minutes later, Luvanga capitalized on a mistake by Kansas City goalkeeper Lorena, stealing the ball in the box and scoring into an empty net.
Kansas City equalized less than two minutes later when LaBonta took advantage of a Washington turnover. Vanessa DiBernardo then put the Current ahead in the 17th minute, assisted by Bethune.
Washington midfielder Hal Hershfelt left the match with an injury and was replaced by Mélissa Bethi in the 20th minute. Neither team recorded another shot on target before halftime, with Washington trailing 2-1 at the break.
Washington presses for an equalizer
Rosemonde Kouassi replaced Sofia Cantore to start the second half as Washington searched for a goal. The Spirit controlled 67 percent of possession during the opening 15 minutes but did not register a shot on frame in that period.
Ashley Hatch entered for Luvanga and Monique Ngock replaced Leicy Santos in the 63rd minute. Trinity Rodman narrowly missed the top corner in the 75th minute and then recorded two shots on target two minutes later, both saved by Lorena.
Paige Metayer entered the match for Lucia Di Guglielmo in the 78th minute. Bethi had the Spirit’s final attacking chance in stoppage time, but her volley went just over the crossbar.
Washington Spirit hosts Chicago Stars FC on Decision Day
The Spirit will host the Chicago Stars FC on Sunday, Nov. 1, at 5 p.m. EST in a Decision Day match. Washington aims to clinch a home quarterfinal match in its regular-season finale.
Maryland Sports Blog take
Washington created an early advantage and maintained possession after halftime, but Kansas City’s quick response in the first half proved decisive. The Spirit now return home with a Decision Day opportunity to pursue a home quarterfinal match.
Source: Original report
