Gotham FC's unbelievable 7-game winning streak; the untold story behind their success

NJ/NY Gotham FC is having a really, really good run in the NWSL, and if that wasn't enough, a huge 3-1 win against Orlando Pride and one more for good measure with a tribute to the great Kelly O'Hara surely did. After the win, their unbeaten run extended to seven games and moved them further ahead in the standings.

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It is no accident, but Gotham FC's good fortune this season. Rare individual talents, a collective strategy, and competitive spirit are woven together in that squad. 

Dominating the Game with a Strong Start

From the first whistle, Gotham FC came ready to dominate. Just 13 minutes into the match, defender Sam Hiatt found the back of the net after redirecting a shot from forward Ella Stevens. The ability to strike first has been a game-changer-the Sunday match marked the seventh straight match they have scored the opening goal.

Orlando Pride equalized in the 31st minute through a penalty kick by forward Adriana. This resilience was complete for Gotham. In the final minutes before the half-time, Rose Lavelle scored for Gotham through smart finishing after successive deflections; this kind of opportunism showcases how the team works out critical moments to its benefit. Indeed, by halftime, Gotham was up 2-1 on the scoreboard, shots 8-4, and shots on target 3-2, leaving no doubt about who was in control.

Impeccable Defense and Effective Offense

The third goal came just four minutes into the second half, with Ella Stevens once again at the center of the action. After a brilliant assist by Bruninha, Stevens slotted home, stretching the gap to 3-1. Trying their best, Orlando Pride couldn't find the back of the net again because of the rock-solid defense and fantastic performance of Gotham goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger, who pulled off important saves.

That is where Gothams' consistency truly shines through. Controlling the defense, exploiting the opponent's weaknesses-all things this team has done throughout the season-have been key. The team stays on top not just because of their goals, but also because of how they know how to "kill" the game, to put it appropriately from the assistant coach Shaun Harris.

Strategy and Consistency: The Keys to Success

Assistant coach Shaun Harris credited consistency and game plan for their success: "We wanted to make sure we tied up some defensive things and stopped them offensively." The team worked at being more effective and staying in the opponent's half of the field while being more lethal in front of goal.

Harris also praised the presence of Kelly O'Hara, for whom the evening was held. "She never gives less than 100 percent, and her energy and attitude are so contagious," Harris said. Her competitive spirit and leadership on and off the pitch have been instrumental in building this culture of winning at Gotham FC.

Kelly O'Hara: A Legend and Her Legacy

Kelly O'Hara is retiring from soccer in great style, and the dynamics she has brought into Gotham FC have been a complete game-changer regarding leadership and inspiration. Assistant coach Shaun Harris said everybody admired Kelly's mentality of winning and how it helped keep the team tight and focused.

"Kelly is an extraordinary human being. Most importantly, she is a great person to have around - which in turn affects the players' energies and attitudes, not to mention the staff's. Her winning mentality and experience being around the players and always communicating with them, adding additional advice, help. Many players look up to her. Of course, we are sad to see her go, but we're happy she was able to close out her career with us, and hopefully we can go a bit further and get her a ring to finish off."

Yazmeen Ryan and Ella Stevens: The Impact of Young Talent

Midfielder Yazmeen Ryan pointed to consistency being the major key to their success. "We work together, and I think that sets us apart from other teams," said Ryan, highlighting this team in general. Most recently, her call-up into the U.S. national team showed her personal development and the environment Gotham FC allows.

Meanwhile, Ella Stevens played another important role in the win over Orlando Pride, as she not only scored but also proved to be versatile on the field. Stevens spoke to how the team and coach Juan Carlos have been important to her as a player: "They've helped me in so many ways. I feel like I've learned so much in training," Stevens said of appreciation for the supportive learning environment of the club.