May 15, 2023 – National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) – NJ/NY Gotham FC News Release
NJ/NY Gotham FC’s goalkeeper Abby Smith in action
(NJ/NY Gotham FC)
Harrison, NJ – Gotham FC’s returned home to Red Bull Arena on Sunday, where the club battled to a 0-0 draw against the Orlando Pride on a night that recognized Ali Krieger and Allie Long on Mother’s Day in addition to celebrating the Asian-American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community.
In a match that produced close chances for both sides, Goalkeeper Abby Smith earned Gotham FC Player of the Match presented by CarMax after a six-save performance that included a first-half save to parry a shot over the crossbar, a double save in the waning minutes before halftime, and a diving, second-half stoppage time save to preserve the clean sheet.
Offensively, Gotham FC had a near-finish in the 12th minute, when midfielder Kelley O’Hara broke through the center of the park, placing a perfect ball in-stride for forward Taylor Smith to strike on target. The forward’s shot rattled off the near post.
In the 59th minute, Gotham FC midfielder Kristie Mewis drew a foul outside the box. The U.S. Women’s National Team midfielder lined up for the set piece. However, the shot hit the inside of the wall.
The club’s chances continued in the 84th minute, as forward Delanie Sheehan sent a pass into forward Yazmeen Ryan on the left side. Ryan’s shot on goal was saved by Orlando Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse.
Gotham FC maintained 56 percent of the possession and showed the versatility of its lineup by moving players into different positions throughout the match. Forward Taylor Smith started at left wing up front before switching to right back late in the first half. The result marks Gotham FC’s first home draw of the season and the club’s first draw of the regular season. Gotham FC now ranks third in NWSL standings with 13 points, sitting in a two-way tie for second-place with OL Reign. However, the OL Reign move ahead based on the goal-differential tie-breaker.
Gotham FC’s next two matches are on the road, at OL Reign on Sunday, May 21 and at Washington Spirit on Sunday, May 28. They will return home on June 4 for a Pride Night match against Alex Morgan the San Diego Wave.
Gotham FC Starting Lineup
Abby Smith, Kelley O’Hara, Ali Krieger (C), Kristin Edmonds, Bruninha, Yazmeen Ryan, Allie Long, Kristie Mewis, Taylor Smith, Lynn Williams, Sinead Farrelly
Substitutions
Delanie Sheehan (Kelley O’Hara – 55′), McCall…