Paramount +, MSG Zone 1, NWSLsoccer.com (international)
Red Bull Arena, Harrison, NJ
Sunday May 14th 5:30pm
Mother's Day!
Our latest podcast featuring former Gotham FC center back and New Jersey Native: Kelly Ann Livingstone: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/9KBpTI7WLzb
Gotham FC looks to build upon a great start to the 2023 campaign as they return home after a 3 game road trip (1-1-1). They take on familiar foe, Orlando Pride on Mother's day in a matchup of two teams trying to erase a poor 2022 season.
Gotham FC has lost just 1 time in their last 5 games. (3W-1D-1L). Last time out they high pressed the lowly Red Stars and caused turnover after turnover leading to a dominant 2-1 win. The score line did not reflect Gotham's dominance though. As it could have gotten out of hand very early as Gotham put shot after shot on target. Jenna Nighswonger, opened her account and leaving the game shortly after, needing stitches to repair a knee gash. Substitute Sinead Farrelly came on and immediately made an impact by finding top scorer Lynn Williams for her 103rd goal contribution of her career. Tops all time list (opta)!
Gotham FC sits tied for 2nd place. 4th overall based on goal differential. 1 point from first place. Gotham has played one of the easiest strengths of schedules so far and harder games are on the horizon. Matchups with Washington, OL, San Diego are on the horizon with Washington and OL on the road. The 11th place Orlando Pride will possibly be the easiest of games before the gauntlet.
Gotham's is statistically are middle of the pack. Gotham is 11th in big chances created. Missing all 3 they've created. 6th in accurate passes per match. 8th in accurate crosses. 5th in clean sheets. Best statistical categories are successful tackles per match (3rd). Fouls per match (2nd). Yellow cards (2nd). Needless to say, Gotham has been very aggressive and physical.
The Matchup:
Historically, the matches have been pretty even. Gotham is 8-5-7 overall. Neither team has drawn this season. The stat that shows the most separation is Gotham scoring 1.17 goals per match and conceding 1.00 while Orlando scores 0.83 per match and conceding 1.83. Last time out Gotham scored the 2 latest goals in NWSL history to win 2-0 in Orlando.
What To Watch For:
The Pride give up goals. Just giving up 4 goals from outside the box in their challenge cup Matchup with the Washington Spirit. First time in NWSL History that a team has given up 4 from outside the box in one match. Going into the season with a pair of inexperienced keepers. Regular started Moorhouse is 1st in the league in saves per match. If Gotham continues to put shots on frame, this could get out of hand early.
Players To Watch:
Gotham FC: Lynn Williams FWD
Lynn is having a remarkable start to the season. Scoring in 6 of 8 games, across all competitions in 2023. Leading the team with 4 regular season goals. She's always a threat in the box and a deadly finisher. However, Lynn showed off a bit against Chicago and blasted a laser in the far corner from outside the box against USWNT mainstay Naher. Williams has been patient, getting 70 percent of her attempts on target. But she's far from a one way player. She's blocked 8 shot. Won 60 percent of her tackles and has had 7 clearances. She's one of the most prolific scores in league history. Second all time in goals.
Orlando Pride: Messiah Bright FWD
A very talented rookie who has all the tools to be a star in this league. Scoring 2 goals so far this campaign. Both goals coming from inside the box. Messiah is a forward with great hold up play and link up ability. Completing 74 percent of her passes. Not the best dribbler of the ball, but Messiah makes the right runs, over and over and is always a danger inside the 18. With players like Adriana and Marta providing service, she is a constant threat.
Ruby: Hat trick
Gary: Goal for Yazmeen Ryan