Rookie forward Jordynn Dudley scored twice to lift first-place Gotham FC six points clear in the NWSL Shield race.
Gotham prevailed 2-1 over the North Carolina Courage in a physical contest at First Horizon Stadium on Saturday night.
“To be a champion, you need to win these kinds of games where it’s exchanging punches and you’re away from home and playing against a very good team,” head coach Juan Carlos Amorós said following the hard-fought road victory.
Jordynn Dudley Records First Career Brace
Dudley secured her first career brace by delivering a 91st-minute match-winner. Rose Lavelle headed down a ball at the near post and Dudley bundled the ball into the net.
“We all know this was an important game going to the end of the season, and we go into every game with the same mindset and really execute it, too,” Dudley said.
The 21-year-old gave Gotham an eighth-minute lead when she combined with Sam Kerr on a give-and-go. Dudley weaved past several defenders before tucking the ball into the far corner.
Gotham captain Tierna Davidson was evaluated for a concussion after blocking a close-range shot with her head and was able to continue after passing concussion protocol. The United States women’s national team defender celebrated her 28th birthday on Saturday.
North Carolina equalized in the 69th minute from a set piece opportunity. Talia Staude scored on the rebound after Ann-Katrin Berger saved the initial shot.
Midfielder Jaelin Howell took part in her 50th NWSL regular-season game.
Denise O’Sullivan Return to North Carolina To Face Former Club
Midfielder Denise O’Sullivan played her first match against her former club after spending eight and a half seasons with the Courage and captaining the club for three years.
“It’s been nice, to be honest,” O’Sullivan said. “My only focus has been on the game, so I haven’t seen anyone or done much. But I’m staying for an extra few days, so that will be nice to be able to get to see people. But the only thing on my mind was getting three points, and I’m happy to be able to do that.”
Gotham will return home on Friday, September 25, when Chicago Stars FC visits Sports Illustrated Stadium. The 8 p.m. Eastern Time match will be streamed on Prime Video.
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