Washington Spirit triumphs over NJ/NY Gotham FC in penalty shootout

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Aubrey Kingsbury makes three PK saves to send Spirit to NWSL final

Aubrey Kingsbury saves all three shots during penalty kicks to send the Washington Spirit to the NWSL final.

Nov 17, 2024, 01:27 am

The Washington Spirit, boosted by a late equalizer and strong performance in a penalty shootout, beat NJ/NY Gotham FC 3-0 in penalties at Audi Field on Saturday.

Washington's Hal Hershfelt delivered a stoppage-time goal to level the score at 1, leading to a dramatic finish decided by penalties.

The victory allows the Spirit to advance to the NWSL championship match, where they will face the winner of Sunday's Orlando Pride-Kansas City Current contest. The title game is scheduled for Nov. 23.

Ashley Hatch, Lena Silano and Tara McKeown scored their penalties, while goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury made saves on all three of Gotham's attempts.

Gotham FC took the lead in the 56th minute when Esther González headed home a cross from Yazmeen Ryan. Despite several attempts from both sides, it wasn't until added time that the Spirit broke through. Makenna Morris provided an assist for Hershfelt's crucial header.

Gotham FC's Ann-Katrin Berger recorded nine saves during regular play but couldn't stop any of Washington's penalties.

Bruninha received two yellow cards, resulting in her ejection from the match during extra time, which left Gotham down a player.

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