By: Tavan Smith
The Washington Spirit provided their home fans with a treat on Sunday afternoon, after more than three weeks on the road, by delivering a complete routing of Louisville Racing FC. Makenna Morris struck first in the 35th minute with an incredible defensive interception and score. Makenna would strike again minutes later from point blank range with assist from Rosemond Kouassi. Placing the Spirit into a commanding lead (2-0) going into the half and they never looked back.
The defensive struggle for Louisville Racing FC continued after Ashley Hatch converted on a penalty kick extending the lead to 3-0 early in the second half. Louisville Racing FC Goalkeeper Katie Lund was under pressure throughout the entire match, and that pressure would only increase when Trinity Rodman (2) was substituted in.
The only goal conceded by Spirit Goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury came in the 72th minute by Emma Sears from Louisville Racing FC after VAR confirmation, closing the lead to 3-1. Sealing the victory in stoppage time was Lena Silano, ending the match with a final score of (4-1) improving the Washington Spirit record to (16-2-6), leaving them firmly in second place just behind the Orlando Pride.
Looking to build momentum heading into the playoffs, the Spirit next opponent will be another home game on October 20th against the Chicago Red Stars (10-2-12).