The latest game from NJ/NY Gotham FC was a game of hard work and strategy. The team defeated Portland Thorns 2-1 in an exciting match to qualify for the semifinals of the NWSL. The team, in front of a record crowd of 15,540, won but proved to everyone why they're so consistent and focused on the pitch-a triumph that shows what great and effective type of style they have held all through this season.
Follow MLS Multiplex on X (Twitter).
Gotham FC: a solid backline and an effective offense.
The first half was really heated technically, with Gotham FC on top in shots, possession of play, and passing accuracy. The scoreline at halftime was 0-0, but that did not show the intent of the team to score as the team played consistently from the opening stages of the game. In the 12th minute, early on, the first real chance fell to midfielder Rose Lavelle, who let go of a shot from the top of the box but was outdone by the alertness of Thorns' goalkeeper Shelby Hogan. Already, this attempt set the tone for Gotham: aggressive but calculated, with solid defense in place.
In the 57th minute, Lavelle had another close call, but once again, Hogan held the scoreline. Yet, Gotham's control over the game didn't wane, with first-half stats showing their superiority in shots and possession—a clear sign of a team that knew exactly where it wanted to go.
First goal: Davidson opens the path to victory
Finally, after 67 minutes of play, a goal came. After a freekick by Lavelle, the ball broke through the Thorns' backline and found defender Tierna Davidson. Davidson quickly touched and then volleyed perfectly to put Gotham in front. That lead was all the team needed, as it highlighted its style of solid, straight-back defense and hard-chipping midfield.
But the Thorns weren't about to go down without a fight. Just seven minutes later, off a free kick from the side, Reilyn Turner jumped up to head the ball square into the net and tie the game at 1-1. The goal rebooted the hope of the Thorns and further raised the layer of tension in an already very heated match.
Lavelle Seals Game with Decisive Last-Minute Goal
In extra time, in the 97', was Gotham FC's winning goal. The goal saw Delanie Sheehan maintain possession as a midfielder, work the ball through to find Rose Lavelle. Experienced and with great composure, Lavelle did not waste the chance but buried the ball in the net to put Gotham back on top and seal the win virtually.
Stats that highlight Gotham FC's dominance
With this win, Gotham showed how to dominate the match from the opening to the final whistle. They had the lead in total shots 16-6, in shots on target 5-2, with a decent advantage in total passes 443-332, showing more strategic possession with fewer errors. Another strong point has been Gothams' offensive strength: they have scored 11 goals in the final 15 minutes of games; only Washington Spirit can do better.
But let their undefeated statistics be proof. With 21 games of current action, Gotham has never lost a match this season when up first, recording 18 wins and 3 draws. This stat brings out a little psychological awareness in the team-that it knows how to hold onto a lead-and instills confidence in their fans who support them.