Gary Gibson
10/02/23
NJ/NY Gotham FC suffered a disappointing and maddening 2-0 defeat to the Houston Dash at home, despite dominating the statistical battle.
Gotham FC outshot the Dash 23-7, including 10-3 in shots on target. They also had a significant advantage in possession, holding the ball for 62% of the match.
You rue the chances you don't convert. Early in the match Gotham had many golden opportunities with balls floating freely across the 6 to Campbell spilling more than one rebound tantalizingly in front of net but Gotham never had a player in the right spot at the right time. Houston got battered for 50 minutes in the first half but Alozie got one chance and punished Gotham. Completely against the run of play. The Dash doubled their lead in the 67th minute when Alozie got behind Gotham's high line and chipped the onrushing Mandy Haught. Again, completely against the run of play.
Gotham FC had a number of chances to get back into the game, but they were unable to convert. Here is a quick summary of the calamity that was Gotham's second half.
Edmonds hitting the crossbar.
Gonzalez hitting the crossbar.
Purce is fouled in the lead up to Houston getting their 2nd goal. No call given.
Gonzalez misses from point blank with no pressure.
A Midge goal gets called back for offside.
Gotham gets a penalty. Jenna beats Campbell but hits the inside of the post and it bounces out.
Then to cap it all off. Onumonu is in on goal with Nighswonger at her side on a 2 on one with Campbell. Just shoots wide. Insert laugh, cry gif here. Unlucky doesn’t even begin to describe it.
Despite the loss, Gotham FC's dominant statistical performance is a sign of their progress this season. They are still in the hunt for the shield and their first every home playoff game.
Dominant Stats for Gotham:
Shots: 23-7
Shots on target: 10-3
Possession: 68%-32%
Corners: 15-0
Clearances 13-34
Accurate passes 78%-53%
Passes in opponents half 166-54
Goal scorers:
Houston Dash: Alozie (50'), (67')
Standout performer:
Sinead Farrelly. Farrelly did a lot of work facilitating the offense. 89% passing accuracy, 100 percent of her dribbles, and created 3 chances.