The Queens Classic at Citi Field made a fitting stage for Sam Kerr’s eagerly awaited NWSL return with Gotham FC.
A sold-out crowd of 42,175 spectators rose to their feet when Kerr’s No. 20 flashed on the substitution board and let out a thunderous ovation when she took her first strides on Queens soil.
Kerr’s Second Gotham Chapter Begins
It was one small step for Kerr that represented a giant leap for the Gotham organization. The defending NWSL champions, who currently call Harrison, New Jersey’s Sports Illustrated Stadium home, will move across the street from Citi Field and begin a new era at Etihad Park in 2028.
The two-time NWSL MVP will be counted on to score bucketloads of goals as Gotham transitions from New Jersey to Queens and begins its new chapter in Willets Point.
Wednesday marked Kerr’s first appearance for Gotham in eight years and 288 days. Back then, the club was known as Sky Blue FC and played at the 5,000-seat Yurcak Field at Rutgers University.
Lately, Gotham has been ruling the pitch like royals and making a habit of collecting diamond-encrusted championship rings. So it only makes sense that a brand-new 25,000-capacity stadium in Queens will be their palace.
Kerr on Queens Classic: ‘This Is What Women’s Football Deserves’
“It was fun to be back. It was exciting, and it was a big crowd, so it was nice,” Kerr said after playing her first match for the club since 2017. “It was a big change from when I was last here, so it was nice to see the growth of the game. This is what women’s football deserves. It should become the norm. It was nice.”
Kerr replaced Sarah Schupansky in the 64th minute. The Australia international logged 26 minutes and one shot on target in a brief but thrilling cameo.
Rose Lavelle’s incredible curling goal lifted Gotham to a 1-0 victory over the rival Washington Spirit.
“It was hectic,” Kerr said of her reintroduction to the NWSL. “The first five minutes were good, and then I kind of dropped off after that. I’ll find my feet and start playing better in a little bit.
“I just need more sessions and more time with the team, getting to know the girls and getting to know the league again. I’m just looking forward to another game on the weekend.”
Lavelle Sees Bright Future Alongside Kerr
Kerr pointed to Lavelle as a key reason why she signed for Gotham FC. All signs point to Lavelle and Kerr forming a dynamic duo.
“I feel so spoiled getting to play at this club because we keep bringing in such incredible players,” Lavelle said during Wednesday’s post-match press conference.
“Sam’s just a world-class player. Even in the 30 minutes we got to play, it was fun to get to link up with her. She obviously is such a threat in behind, and as a 10, that’s always really exciting when you can get on the ball and have somebody who’s going to be so dangerous making those runs and is such an excellent finisher. I’m really excited to keep building that.”
Veteran defender Mandy Freeman played her 2017 NWSL rookie season with Sky Blue alongside Kerr and is excited to team up again with the elite-level striker.
“It was a good preview of what she’s capable of bringing to the club,” Freeman stated in the mixed zone. “We’re hoping to see more of her stretching ability, the way she can connect with the midfield and get in behind. Having that offensive threat is going to be great for our attacking moments. Sam is a great, well-experienced player, and having her on the team has been a joy, especially because we go way back.”
Gotham supporters won’t have to wait long before seeing more of Kerr in action. The Bats will next face Seattle Reign FC on Saturday with a noon kickoff at Icahn Stadium.
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