On the latest edition of USL Super League Game Week, hosts Anna Witte and Marion Crowder predict who is most likely to win the Golden Boot race, discuss why Spokane Zephyr FC is seeing success this spring, and recap what last week’s matches mean for Brooklyn FC and Carolina Ascent FC.
Dallas Trinity FC midfielder and captain Amber Brooks later joins the show to discuss what interested her about playing in the Super League, her experience being a leader for the team, the diversity among the players in the locker room, and what is finally clicking for the group after it recorded two, huge back-to-back wins over Brooklyn.
Dallas Trinity FC
Super League Power Rankings – Week 25
Spokane continues to rise after productive double matchweek
Since the return from break, Spokane Zephyr FC has been one of the most exciting teams to watch and has propelled itself into a position to earn a spot in the postseason. In Spokane’s five spring matches, it has gone 3-1-1, second to only Fort Lauderdale in that span.
Spokane’s attack has transformed since the fall and has created more chances on goal. Emina Ekić had already started making a name for herself in the league as one of the most dynamic playmakers, but now combined with Ally Cook, Zephyr’s offense looks even stronger. Midfielder Katie Murray has also gotten forward more often than we saw in the first half of the season to become another attacking option. Ekić, Cook and Murray have combined for 12 shots, six goals and 11 chances created this spring.
Zephyr’s defense has also continued to be one of the most composed in the league. Center back Sarah Clark has recorded 31 clearances in the last five matches, including the incredible goal-line save against Tampa Bay Sun on Wednesday. The outside backs of Alyssa Bourgeois and Haley Thomas have excelled in shutting down runs on the flanks as well as getting forward in Spokane’s attack. They’ve combined for 19 tackles won, 45 duels won, 33 clearances and seven chances created.
Spokane’s win last week over the Sun was huge in terms of closing the gap in the standings. Zephyr has nine matches to go, six of which are against higher-ranked opponents. If they can keep picking up points along the way, there’s still a chance for the team to slide into the top four.
On The Move
Rank |
Team |
Change |
Summary |
|
| 1 |  |
Fort Lauderdale United FC (9-5-5) Week 26: — |
 Last Week: 1 |
FTL UTD remains No. 1 after picking up a point in the draw against Spokane. Although it was just the third time the team was shut out this season, Fort Lauderdale dominated possession and still got off 13 shots to continue its nine-match unbeaten streak. |
| 2 |  |
Dallas Trinity FC (8-4-6) Week 26: @ CAR |
Last Week: 2 |
Trinity picked up right where it left off and earned consecutive victories against Brooklyn after winning 3-0 on Wednesday. Camryn Lancaster has quickly shown what an asset she is to the team, and 17-year-old Sealey Strawn continues to make a case for why she’s one of the best young stars in the league. |
| 3 |  |
Spokane Zephyr FC (5-7-7) Week 26: — |
 2Last Week: 5 |
After earning back-to-back stoppage time wins, Spokane held the team on a scoring streak to its first shutout since November. So long as Zephyr keeps playing hard the full 90+ minutes and capitalizing on goal-scoring opportunities, the team will continue to rise in the standings. |
| 4 |  |
Carolina Ascent FC (8-5-7) Week 26: vs. DAL |
Last Week: 4 |
Carolina finally earned the big win that had been brewing over the past few weeks. The team jumped out to an early lead and never let off the gas. Riley Parker and Audrey Harding recorded their first goals of the season, and the Ascent earned its first clean sheet of the spring. |
| 5 |  |
Tampa Bay Sun FC (6-5-8) Week 26: @ BKN |
 2Last Week: 3 |
Tampa Bay fought back against Spokane and found a late equalizer in Wednesday’s match before ultimately falling 2-1 in stoppage time. The team has struggled to put away some of its other chances in the final third, and averaging one goal per game this spring will rarely be enough to earn wins in this league. |
| 6 |  |
DC Power FC (3-9-6) Week 26: — |
1 Last Week: 7 |
Gianna Gourley has been on fire for DC Power since her trade over the break, and she has played a key role in the points DC has earned this spring. If DC was a little bit more organized defensively, it possibly could have gotten a win over Brooklyn last weekend. |
| 7 |  |
Brooklyn FC (9-6-5) Week 26: vs. TB |
1 Last Week: 8 |
Just when it seemed like Brooklyn would pick up its first win of the spring, it conceded a late equalizer and had to split points with DC after falling 3-0 to Dallas midweek. Individual errors are costing the team, along with the fact that it is still not able to capitalize on scoring opportunities like it did in the fall. |
| 8 |  |
Lexington SC (4-11-4) Week 26: — |
2 Last Week: 6 |
Once Lexington conceded in the second minute, the team struggled to find its footing in the match. Clearing lines continues to be the Achilles heel for this team, and it also is not scoring at the rate it was at the beginning of the season. |
Week 25 Photo Gallery
Addie vs Allie: Who has the edge in the Golden Boot race?
Two Texas natives are battling for the Golden Boot as we inch closer to the final two months of the regular season.
Fort Lauderdale United’s Addie McCain and Dallas Trinity’s Allie Thornton sit at nine goals each, leading the league and propelling their teams to the top three in the Super League standings.
Which one is most likely to reach double digits goals first and will they end up finishing the season with the most scored? Here’s why the stats give Thornton the edge to claim the award.
STRAIGHT SHOOTER
When it comes to finishing, Thornton might be the most lethal finisher in the Super League. She has led the league nearly all season with her shooting accuracy, which currently stands at 67.9%, the highest among players with minimum 12 shots. She has the most shots on target (19) and the best minutes per goal ratio (153.11).
That said, McCain is not far behind. She has 26 total shots, just two fewer than Thornton, with 13 on target for 50% shooting accuracy. She has also played nearly 200 more minutes than Thornton, so her mins/goal is slightly higher at 171.44, but she has an xG of 5.59 to Thornton’s 5.83.
POSITIONAL ADVANTAGE
Thornton’s role is crucial, even though the type of goals she and McCain have scored are nearly identical. All 18 of the duo’s goals have come from inside the penalty area, both have one headed goal and only one of McCain’s goals has been from the penalty spot.
But their starting positions matter and play a role in why Thornton will likely finish first. She is a true striker and spends nearly the entire match in Dallas’ attacking third. McCain, on the other hand, is frequently dropping back and getting on the defensive end as a center midfielder.
Below are the heat maps from the Dallas vs Fort Lauderdale match on November 2, with Thornton on the left and McCain on the right.
TEAMMATE INFLUENCE
When your team is relying on you to be a finisher, it makes a difference. That’s not always the case for McCain, whose FTL teammates Jasmine Hamid, Sh’Nia Gordon and Kiara Locklear have scored eight goals this spring, helping carry the side to top spot. On top of that, both of McCain’s assists this season have come since the return from the winter break. If the team is finding success through McCain winning possession in the midfield and creating chances for her teammates, there will likely be fewer goal-scoring opportunities for her the rest of the season.
By contrast, while Thornton and the Trinity attack also gained offensive reinforcement through the winter additions of Lexi Missimo and Camryn Lancaster, there’s no question as to her role in the Dallas lineup. Thornton’s years of experience – and already spending the first half of the season creating chemistry with midfielders Amber Brooks and Chioma Ubogagu – still make her Dallas’ first option, and the player they’ll count on to deliver in the opposing penalty area down the stretch.
Both teams have 10 matches to go and are setting themselves up for postseason play. Everyone should be keeping a close eye on these two going forward to see who will earn the inaugural Super League Golden Boot.
Brooklyn, Spokane prepare for double matchweek | Week 25 Match Previews
Tampa Bay Sun FC vs. Spokane Zephyr FC
Venue: Riverfront Stadium; Tampa, FL
Kickoff: Wednesday, March 19; 7:00 p.m. ET
Weather: Clear skies, 57°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- Both teams are coming off home wins in Week 24. Tampa Bay won 1-0 against Carolina Ascent, and Spokane defeated DC Power 3-2.
- Both teams have one win against the other this season. Spokane won the first meeting in October 1-0 before Tampa Bay won 3-2 in the Fall Finale.
- Tampa Bay hasn’t lost a match at home since mid-September. It has gone 3-0-4 since then.
- Wednesday’s match will be the first of two for Spokane this week.
Players to Watch
TB – Natasha Flint: Since the start of the Spring Schedule, Flint has tallied 10 shots, five chances created, and 17 duels won to go along with her goal and assist. Spokane’s defense will have to be wary of Flint’s ability to attack quickly after winning the ball.
SPK – Emina Ekić: Ekić recorded a brace and the game-winner in last week’s win over DC Power. The Bosnian international leads Spokane with five goals and four assists and will be the primary playmaker for Zephyr in this match.
| Tampa Bay Sun FC | Spokane Zephyr FC | |
| Head Coach | Denise Schilte-Brown | Jo Johnson |
| Club Record | 6-4-8 | 4-7-6 |
| Standings | 5th | 6th |
Brooklyn FC vs. Dallas Trinity FC
Venue: Maimonides Park; Brooklyn, NY
Kickoff: Wednesday, March 19; 7:30 p.m. ET
Weather: Cloudy, 43°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- Brooklyn has suffered two back-to-back losses. Dallas had Week 24 off after its match against Lexington was rescheduled due to weather issues.
- The teams recently played each other in Week 23, and Dallas recorded the league’s largest win with a 6-0 victory at the Cotton Bowl.
- Brooklyn recently dropped from the No. 1 spot in the standings for the first time since Week 14. However, earning at least one point would move the team back to first.
- Brooklyn is still looking for its first win of the spring.
- Dallas has scored the most goals (27) and has the best goal differential (11) in the league.
Players to Watch
BKN – Jess Garziano: The St. John’s alum had three shots, one tackle and one interception in last week’s match. Brooklyn needs to find Garziano more often and play her into space so she can get as many quality looks as she was at the beginning of the season.
DAL – Chioma Ubogagu: Ubogagu was everywhere in Dallas’ last win over Brooklyn. The midfielder recorded a goal, two assists, two shots, three tackles and three chances created on 78% passing accuracy.
| Brooklyn FC | Dallas Trinity FC | |
| Head Coach | Jess Silva | Pauline MacDonald |
| Club Record | 9-5-4 | 7-4-6 |
| Standings | 2nd | 4th |
Fort Lauderdale United FC vs. Spokane Zephyr FC
Venue: Beyond Bancard Field; Davie, FL
Kickoff: Saturday, March 22; 7:30 p.m. ET
Weather: Partly cloudy, 64°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- Saturday’s match will be Spokane’s second of the week after facing Tampa Bay on Wednesday.
- Fort Lauderdale took over the No. 1 spot after defeating Brooklyn 2-0 last week.
- Fort Lauderdale is on an eight-match unbeaten streak. The team has also scored at least one goal in all eight of those matches.
- FTL’s Addie McCain is one goal away from reaching 10 on the season.
- FTL is 1-0-1 against Spokane this season. The teams drew 1-1 during the league’s inaugural weekend, and FTL won 2-1 against Zephyr in December.
Players to Watch
FTL – Sh’Nia Gordon: The West Virginia alum scored a brace to secure last week’s win over Brooklyn. The winger is finding her stride in front of goal during this Spring Schedule after leading the team in shots this entire season.
SPK – Katie Murray: The midfielder recorded her second goal in three matches in the win over DC. Murray is quick on the counterattack and creates chances for her teammates, but she is also not afraid to take shots from distance.
| Fort Lauderdale United FC | Spokane Zephyr FC | |
| Head Coach | Tyrone Mears | Jo Johnson |
| Club Record | 9-5-4 | 4-7-6 |
| Standings | 1st | 6th |
DC Power FC vs. Brooklyn FC
Venue: Audi Field; Washington, DC
Kickoff: Sunday, March 23; 2:00 p.m. ET
Weather: Sunny, 66°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- Sunday’s match is the second of the week for Brooklyn after facing Dallas on Wednesday.
- Both teams are still searching for their first wins of the spring.
- Both teams have one win against each other this season. DC earned its first win on the road when it beat Brooklyn 1-0 in stoppage time. Brooklyn then defeated DC 3-0 in November behind a Luana Grabias hat trick.
- DC has scored six goals in its last three matches. Brooklyn has been shutout in its last three matches prior to Wednesday.
Players to Watch
DC – Gianna Gourley: In Gourley’s first three matches with her new team, she has contributed to a goal in each one (2g/1a). The striker has looked more and more confident in front of goal and will be the primary target for DC in Sunday’s match.
BKN – Mackenzie Pluck: The midfielder scored Brooklyn’s lone goal this spring and continues to be the playmaker for the team this season. Getting Pluck more involved with Garziano and Sam Kroger in the midfield will be key to breaking down DC.
| DC Power FC | Brooklyn FC | |
| Head Coach | Phil Nana (Interim Coach) | Jess Silva |
| Club Record | 3-9-5 | 9-5-4 |
| Standings | 8th | 2nd |
Lexington SC vs. Carolina Ascent FC
Venue: Lexington Stadium; Lexington, KY
Kickoff: Sunday, March 23; 4:00 p.m. ET
Weather: Partly cloudy, 64°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- Sunday’s match will be the final meeting between the two teams this regular season. After splitting the first two matches 1-1, Carolina finally earned the 2-1 win over Lexington this February.
- Carolina is coming off a 1-0 loss to Tampa Bay in Week 24. Lexington had the week off after its match against Dallas was rescheduled due to weather issues.
- This is the last of three consecutive road matches for the Ascent.
Players to Watch
LEX – Shea Moyer: Lexington’s captain has been holding down the midfield in its last two matches. She recorded four interceptions, three clearances, two tackles and one chance created in the win against DC.
CAR – Mia Corbin: The striker has been leading the way for Carolina all season. She recorded two shots on target, a tackle and an interception in last week’s match, and she scored against Lexington two of the three times they’ve met.
| Lexington SC | Carolina Ascent FC | |
| Head Coach | Sam Stockley (Interim Coach) | Philip Poole |
| Club Record | 4-10-4 | 7-5-7 |
| Standings | 7th | 3rd |
Spokane, DC seeing offensive boost in Spring Schedule | News & Notes Week 25
REWIND: WEEK 24 NOTES
SPK 3 – 2 DC
- GOALS:
- Katie Murray (SPK) 36’, Emma Jaskaniec assist.
- Anna Bagley (DC) 50’
- Gianna Gourley (DC) 63’, Loza Abera assist.
- Emina Ekić (SPK) 66’, Penalty.
- Emina Ekić (SPK) 90+3’
- STORYLINES:
- BAGGED A BRACE: Emina Ekić recorded the first brace in Spokane Zephyr history.
- FROM THE SPOT: Ekić has converted all three of her penalty kicks. She leads the league in penalties taken and converted this season.
- GO ON GOURLEY: Gianna Gourley has contributed to a goal (2g/1a) in all three of DC Power’s matches this spring.
- SECOND: Katie Murray and Anna Bagley both recorded their second goals of the season. Emma Jaskaniec recorded her second assist of the season.
- SCORING SUBSTITUTE: Anna Bagley recorded a goal after entering the match as a substitute for the second time this season. She previously scored the game-winner in the 90+2’ against Fort Lauderdale on November 23 after subbing into the match in the 70th minute.
- 3-2 SCORELINE: Saturday’s match was Spokane’s third time ending a match with a 3-2 scoreline. This was the first time the team was on the winning side.
- QUOTES:
- Spokane Head Coach Jo Johnson:
- On the team’s offensive success … “I think the three goals are almost more important to me than the three points, because that’s been our Achilles’ heel. To build on that momentum into the next one, especially on the road, gives us confidence to put some in the back of the net.”
- Spokane Goal Scorer Emina Ekić:
- On the free kick goal in stoppage time … “I’ve done this shot plenty of times before, it was in my sweet spot. I was trying to keep it low and trying to hit it hard so it could go against the wind.”
- DC Interim Head Coach Phil Nana:
- On the team’s motivation to get back on track next week… “We’ll look at the film because there were lots of good moments. I told them our biggest thing was to keep on believing and this is a great opportunity for us to work on that. It’s tough to believe when the odds are stacked up against you but we have no choice.”
- On Gianna Gourley scoring two goals in three matches… “We’re Impressed. That second goal came from hustle and heart. She digs deep and she produces. She works hard for them.”
- DC Goal Scorer Anna Bagley:
- On her equalizer…“Seeing the equalizer hit the back of the net, I definitely felt a big sense of relief. My first touch of the game being a goal was a great feeling, and it gave our team some momentum, leading us to a second goal and that really switched up the entire mood of the match.”
- On how the result strengthens the team… “It definitely wasn’t the result we were hoping for, especially after coming back and scoring two goals, but it brings us closer and motivates us for upcoming games. We know that we’re capable of winning these games and beating these teams. That motivates us when we face them again.”
- Spokane Head Coach Jo Johnson:
BKN 0 – 2 FTL
- GOALS:
- Sh’Nia Gordon (FTL) 32’, Kiara Locklear assist.
- Sh’Nia Gordon (FTL) 67’
- STORYLINES:
- NEW NO. 1: The win over Brooklyn moved Fort Lauderdale to first place in the league standings. Brooklyn had previously held the No. 1 spot since Week 14.
- BAGGED A BRACE: Sh’Nia Gordon recorded her first and Fort Lauderdale’s second brace of the season. She ranks tied for third on the team with three goals.
- EIGHT STRAIGHT: Fort Lauderdale set a new league record by scoring at least one goal in eight consecutive matches. The team has only been shut out twice in its 17 matches. FTL is also undefeated (6-0-2) in those eight matches.
- OFFENSIVE STRUGGLES: Brooklyn has been shut out its last three matches, after recording at least one goal in the seven prior matches.
- CLEAN SHEET: Cosette Morché is now tied for second in the league after earning her fourth clean sheet.
- QUOTES:
- Brookyln Head Coach Jess Silva:
- On how the team responded after conceding the second goal… “I don’t know that things changed, but I think that we dropped off a little bit too much. Right before we get scored on, we have a great opportunity, and we get we miss it, and then they come back our way, and it’s off a mistake. So, it’s obviously frustrating, but I really liked how we came back and had a really strong start to the second half.”
- Brooklyn Midfielder Mackenzie Pluck:
- On the team’s first match at Maimonides Park… “Honestly, we were so excited to see so many people show out for us and just play for Brooklyn. It’s been a long time coming, and just seeing people fill in the stands and cheer us on made the biggest difference for us. So hopefully we can continue to perform and do our best for you guys, leading forward in the next couple games.”
- FTL Goal Scorer Sh’Nia Gordon:
- On what contributed to the team’s success… “I think just playing our game and playing how we know how to play. We connected our passes, we fought and we worked hard defensively. We were connected and compact. We just played to our strengths, and that’s what got us to win.”
- On scoring a brace… “I couldn’t have done it without the team, so I’m thankful for them, and I’m just happy to get those goals to secure the win for this team because we work so hard, and we deserved it. So, that’s all that really matters to me.”
- Brookyln Head Coach Jess Silva:
TB 1 – 0 CAR
- GOALS:
- Natasha Flint (TB) 14’, Cecilie Fløe assist.
- STORYLINES:
- FIVE FOR FLINT: Natasha Flint scored her fifth goal of the season.
- RIVERFRONT: Tampa Bay is undefeated (4-0-2) in its last six matches at Riverfront Stadium.
- SNAPPED THE SCORING STREAK: Tampa Bay shut out Carolina for the first time this spring. The Ascent had scored eight goals in its previous four matches.
- CLEAN SHEET: Ashley Orkus recorded her third clean sheet of the season.
- QUOTES:
- Carolina Head Coach Philip Poole:
- On creating 13 corners but not scoring… “It’s good to get 13 corners, which is a lot for any team in any game. We need that final touch, that final piece. We were so close on several occasions. We want to create certain matchups in there and we created them, we just didn’t get that one that we were able to put in the back of the net. I just think that final piece, sometimes they go in, sometimes they don’t. “
- Carolina Defender Jill Aguilera:
- On the process of finding wins on the road… “Everyone knows it’s hard to win on the road, but I think we need to continue to trust the game plan and each other’s abilities. I think we need to take the positives out of this game and apply it to how we are going to beat Lexington next weekend.”
- Carolina Head Coach Philip Poole:
WEEK 25 SCHEDULE
Wednesday, March 19th
Tampa Bay Sun FC v Spokane Zephyr FC, 7:00 p.m. ET
Brooklyn FC v Dallas Trinity FC, 7:30 p.m. ET
Saturday, March 22nd
Fort Lauderdale United FC v Spokane Zephyr FC, 7:30 p.m. ET
Sunday, March 23rd
DC Power FC v Brooklyn FC, 2:00 p.m. ET
Lexington SC v Carolina Ascent FC, 4:00 p.m. ET
WEEK 25 STORYLINES
NO. 1 SPOT
Fort Lauderdale slid into the top spot in the league standings after defeating Brooklyn 2-0 last week. However, Brooklyn has two matches in Week 25 and can move back to first place if it picks up results against Dallas and DC.
ON THE BRINK
Fort Lauderdale’s Addie McCain is one goal away from reaching 10 goals scored on the season. Not far behind is Dallas’ Allie Thornton with eight goals scored.
TAMPA BAY TRIO
Natasha Flint, Carlee Giammona and Cecilie Fløe have scored 14 of Tampa Bay’s last 15 goals, dating back to early November. Flint assisted on the one goal not scored by them. The trio accounts for 17 of the team’s 23 goals.
BRACING FOR IMPACT
Spokane and Fort Lauderdale recorded the league’s 12th and 13th braces in their last wins. Brooklyn is now the only team to have not recorded a brace; however, it is one of only three teams to have recorded a hat trick.
GOURLEY GOING FOR GOAL
Gianna Gourley has quickly made an impact for DC Power since joining the team over break. She is now tied for first with Katie Duong on the team in goal contributions. Gourley has recorded two goals and one assist; Duong has two assists and one goal.
DISCIPLINE REPORT – WEEK 24
TAMPA, Fla. – There are no new suspensions to report.
LEAGUE LEADERS
GOALS:
- Addie McCain (FTL) – 9 goals
- Allie Thornton (DAL) – 8 goals
- Jasmine Hamid (FTL) – 7 goals
- Carlee Giammona (TB) – 6 goals
- Mia Corbin (CAR) – 6 goals
- Cecilie Fløe (TB) – 6 goals
- Madison Parsons (LEX) – 5 goals
- Emina Ekić (SPK) – 5 goals
- Natasha Flint (TB) – 5 goals
ASSISTS:
- Madison Perez (LEX) – 5 assists
- Madi Parsons (LEX) – 5 assists
- Mackenzie Pluck (BKN) – 4 assists
- Emina Ekić (SPK) – 4 assists
- Shea Moyer (LEX) – 4 assists
- Jillienne Aguilera (CAR) – 4 assists
- Chioma Ubogagu (DAL) – 4 assists
- Kiara Locklear (FTL) – 4 assists
- Mackenzie George (BKN) – 3 assists
- Rylee Baisden (CAR) – 3 assists
- Sydny Nasello (TB) – 3 assists
- Audrey Harding (CAR) – 3 assists
- Lucy Shepherd (DAL) – 3 assists
CLEAN SHEETS:
- Meagan McClelland (CAR) – 6 clean sheets
- Madison White (DAL) – 6 clean sheets
- Sydney Martinez (BKN) – 4 clean sheets
- Morgan Aquino (DC) – 4 clean sheets
- Hope Hisey (SPK) – 4 clean sheets
- Neeku Purcell (BKN) – 4 clean sheets
- Cosette Morche (FTL) – 4 clean sheets
MILESTONES
HAT TRICKS:
- DAL – Allie Thornton (09.13.24): 61 minutes
- FTL – Addie McCain (09.22.24): 68 minutes
- BKN – Luana Grabias (11.13.24): 13 minutes
BRACES:
- DAL – Chioma Ubogagu (09.13.24)
- DC – Madison Wolfbauer (09.29.24)
- TB – Cecilie Fløe Nielsen (10.02.24)
- CAR – Ashlynn Serepca (10.19.24)
- LEX – Madison Parsons (10.19.24)
- DC – Allie Flanagan (10.25.24)
- TB – Cecilie Fløe Nielsen (11.02.24)
- LEX – Hannah Richardson (12.14.24)
- TB – Natasha Flint (12.14.24)
- FTL – Kiara Locklear (12.14.24)
- DAL – Allie Thornton (03.09.25)
- SPK – Emina Ekić (03.15.25)
- FTL – Sh’Nia Gordon (03.15.25)
Super League Power Rankings – Week 24
Two braces highlighted two big wins in Week 24 of the USL Super League. Spokane forward Emina Ekić scored a brace, including the stoppage-time game-winner, in Zephyr’s come-from-behind win over DC Power FC. Fort Lauderdale United FC winger Sh’Nia Gordon also scored twice in the 2-0 win that catapulted the team to the top of the league standings.
Ekić equalized in the 65th minute from the penalty spot, where she is now a perfect three-for-three this season. Then, the Bosnian international took a free kick right outside the box and whipped it into the back of the net in the second minute of stoppage time. It was just the second direct free kick goal in the league this season, and the first-ever brace in club history.
Later Saturday night, Gordon scored in both halves of the match against Brooklyn to earn Fort Lauderdale its ninth win of the season. FTL UTD set a record of scoring in eight consecutive matches and is undefeated during that span (6-0-2). Gordon is now tied for third on the team with three goals this season.
On The Move
Rank |
Team |
Change |
Summary |
|
| 1 | |
Fort Lauderdale United FC (9-5-4) Week 25: vs. SPK |
Last Week: 1 |
It’s another week on top for the hottest team in the league. Sh’Nia Gordon scored the second brace in club history to pick up the team’s third win in the last four matches. It was also a great performance in goal for Cosette Morché as she earned her fourth clean sheet. |
| 2 | |
Dallas Trinity FC (7-4-6) Week 25: @ BKN |
Last Week: 2 |
Despite the last-minute rescheduling last week, Dallas Trinity gets extra time off to prep for the midweek match against Brooklyn. After Dallas’ dominant showing against the same team in Week 23, Trinity can carry that momentum into Wednesday and try to win its second match in a row. |
| 3 | |
Tampa Bay Sun FC (6-4-8) Week 25: vs. SPK |
1 Last Week: 4 |
After recording four consecutive draws, it was imperative for Tampa Bay to earn a win at home to try to move up the standings. Natasha Flint scored her fifth goal of the season by capitalizing on an error right outside the box and the Sun defeated Carolina for the second this season. |
| 4 | |
Carolina Ascent FC (7-5-7) Week 25: @ LEX |
1 Last Week: 3 |
Just when it seemed like Ascent had re-found its scoring stride, the team was shutout despite recording 13 corners and nine total shots. One error cost the team the game in an otherwise strong defensive effort, but Carolina has a lot of positives to take away from the match before it faces Lexington on Sunday. |
| 5 | |
Spokane Zephyr FC (4-7-6) Week 25: @ TB; @ FTL |
3 Last Week: 8 |
Spokane lost its first lead but clawed back to earn all three points against DC Power on Saturday. The team lost its defensive shape a few times throughout the match, but the group that had once been struggling to score has now netted five goals in the last three matches. |
| 6 | |
Lexington SC (4-10-4) Week 25: vs. CAR |
1 Last Week: 5 |
Like Dallas, the week off can do Lexington some good as it prepares for its final test against Carolina this Saturday. When the sides met last month, Lexington held more possession but didn’t make the most of its opportunities until the final 10 minutes of the match. A strong, early start could be the key to Lexington earning back-to-back wins. |
| 7 | |
DC Power FC (3-9-5) Week 25: vs. BKN |
1 Last Week: 6 |
DC has also found its way out of the scoring slump it was in during the first half of the season. The team has scored nearly as many goals in the last three matches as it did in the entire Fall Schedule. Now, DC needs to improve the defensive end and limit fouls in its defensive third. |
| 8 | |
Brooklyn FC (9-5-4) Week 25: vs. DAL; @ DC |
1 Last Week: 7 |
The spring woes continue for Brooklyn FC, which suffered its second straight loss last week at its home opener at Maimonides Park. The group is not connecting up top and has been struggling to clear its lines on the defensive end. Fortunately, Brooklyn has two chances this week to regain its spot at the top of the table. |
Lexington SC vs. Dallas Trinity FC match rescheduled
LEXINGTON, KY – Lexington Sporting Club has announced that its upcoming home match against Dallas Trinity FC, rescheduled for 12:00 p.m. EST on Saturday, March 15, 2025, has been canceled due to travel delays caused by regional weather.
The rescheduled match is set to take place on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. EST.
With the change, all tickets purchased for the originally scheduled match will be valid for the rescheduled match. Any fan who purchased a ticket for this match will also be eligible to receive a complimentary ticket to a future USL Super League match of their choosing during the 2025 spring season. To claim this ticket, please fill out the following form.
The club extends its gratitude to the fans for their patience and understanding during this time. Supporters are encouraged to follow Lexington Sporting Club’s official website and social media channels for the latest updates regarding the rescheduled match and other club news.
Brooklyn, Tampa Bay, DC look for first spring wins | Week 24 Match Previews
Spokane Zephyr FC vs. DC Power FC
Venue: ONE Spokane Stadium; Spokane, WA
Kickoff: Saturday, March 15; 5:00 p.m. ET
Weather: Showers, 47°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- Both teams are coming off 2-1 home losses in Week 23. Spokane fell to Carolina Ascent, and DC lost to Lexington.
- Spokane is 1-0-1 against DC this season. Zephyr picked up its first-ever win on September 22, 2024, when it hosted DC in the 1-0 victory.
- Spokane’s Katie Murray and DC’s Madison Wolfbauer played two seasons together (2017-18) at the University of Illinois.
- DC has scored in back-to-back matches for the first time this season.
Players to Watch
SPK – Haley Thomas: The outside back has been putting in work on both sides of the field lately. In last week’s match, Thomas recorded eight clearances while also talling two crosses and one shot.
DC – Loza Abera: The Ethiopian striker has been a burst of energy off the bench for DC Power. She scored her first goal of the season last week to get the team back in the match against Lexington.
| Spokane Zephyr FC | DC Power FC | |
| Head Coach | Jo Johnson | Phil Nana (Interim Coach) |
| Club Record | 3-7-6 | 3-8-5 |
| Standings | 7th | 8th |
Brooklyn FC vs. Fort Lauderdale United FC
Venue: Maimonides Park; Brooklyn, NY
Kickoff: Saturday, March 15; 6:00 p.m. ET
Weather: Overcast, 52°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- Saturday’s match will be the first at Brooklyn’s new home stadium Maimonides Park in Coney Island.
- Brooklyn is coming off its worst loss of the season, falling 6-0 to Dallas last week. The team is still searching for its first win of the Spring Schedule.
- Fort Lauderdale is undefeated and has scored at least one goal in its last seven matches.
- FTL’s Addie McCain and Jasmine Hamid are first and third in the Golden Boot race. McCain has nine goals, and Hamid has seven and has scored in the last four matches.
- Both teams are 1-1-0 against each other. Fort Lauderdale won the first matchup 1-0, and Brooklyn rebounded with a 3-1 victory in October.
- If Fort Lauderdale wins, it would take over the top spot in the league standings for the first time this season.
Players to Watch
BKN – Luana Grabias: Brooklyn has struggled to find its footing offensively since its return from break. However, Grabias has shown to be a spark up top who can shoot from distance or dribble through traffic for a short-range blast into the back of the net.
FTL – Jasmine Hamid: Every team should have Hamid on their scouting report at this point of the season. The 2x Player of the Month is extremely dangerous down that left flank and can shoot from anywhere or set up her teammates inside the box.
| Brooklyn FC | Fort Lauderdale United FC | |
| Head Coach | Jess Silva | Tyrone Mears |
| Club Record | 9-4-4 | 8-5-4 |
| Standings | 1st | 2nd |
Tampa Bay Sun FC vs. Carolina Ascent FC
Venue: Riverfront Stadium; Tampa, FL
Kickoff: Saturday, March 15; 7:30 p.m. ET
Weather: Clear skies, 71°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- Tampa Bay is coming off a 1-1 draw against Fort Lauderdale last week. Carolina most recently picked up a 2-1 win at Spokane.
- Tampa Bay is 1-0-1 against Carolina this season. The teams ended in a scoreless draw in their first matchup before the Sun ended Carolina’s 11-match unbeaten streak with a 2-1 the last time they played at Riverfront Stadium.
- Tampa Bay has only lost one of its eight home matches. It is 3-1-4 at Riverfront Stadium.
- Carolina Ascent forward Riley Parker will return to the Sunshine State this weekend to face her former team Tampa Bay Sun for the first time since her winter break transfer.
Players to Watch
TB – Cecile Fløe: The Danish forward picked up her team-leading sixth goal of the season last week to earn a point in the Florida Derby. Fløe has that attacking instinct in front of goal and will be the biggest threat for Carolina’s backline.
CAR – Jenna Butler: The NC State alum has fit right into the Ascent’s defense since she joined the team in January. Not only has she been aggressive in protecting the net on her end of the field, but she’s also an aerial threat on the other side, as we saw last week when she headed in her first professional goal.
| Tampa Bay Sun FC | Carolina Ascent FC | |
| Head Coach | Denise Schilte-Brown | Philip Poole |
| Club Record | 5-4-8 | 7-4-7 |
| Standings | 5th | 3rd |