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Carolina, Dallas look to continue winning streaks | Week 26 Match Previews

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Brooklyn FC vs. Tampa Bay Sun FC 

Venue: Maimonides Park; Brooklyn, NY 

Kickoff: Saturday, March 29; 6:00 p.m. ET 

Weather: Cloudy with chance of showers, 48° 

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Brooklyn is coming off a 1-1 draw against DC Power, and Tampa Bay most recently fell 2-1 in stoppage time to Spokane Zephyr. 
  • Brooklyn is still searching for its first win of the spring and at its new home stadium. 
  • With a win, Brooklyn would move back to first in the standings. 
  • Brooklyn has a 2-0-1 record against Tampa Bay this season. The two sides most recently played to a 1-1 draw in February. 
  • Tampa Bay’s Carlee Giammona, Natasha Flint and Cecilie Fløe have each scored six goals this season. No other club has three different scorers with 5+ goals each. 
  • Carlee Giammona played at the University of Alabama in 2019 with Brooklyn defender Sasha Pickard, and later transferred to Pepperdine, where she played three seasons with Brooklyn center back Kelsey Hill.   

Players to Watch

BKN – Mackenzie George: The Tennessee alum finally broke Brooklyn out of its scoring slump last week and recorded the team’s first goal since February. Since moving back in a more defensive role, she tallied two tackles, two clearances and an interception in the match. 

TB – Natasha Flint: The English international has scored in consecutive matches for the Sun and is one of the most versatile attackers in the league. Against Spokane, Flint recorded three shots, two chances created, three tackles and a clearance. 

 Brooklyn FC Tampa Bay Sun FC 
Head Coach Jess Silva Denise Schilte-Brown 
Club Record 9-6-5 6-5-8 
Standings 2nd 5th 

Carolina Ascent FC vs. Dallas Trinity FC 

Venue: American Legion Memorial Stadium; Charlotte, NC 

Kickoff: Saturday, March 29; 7:00 p.m. ET 

Weather: Cloudy with chance of showers, 61° 

Broadcast: Peacocktv.com 

Things to Know

  • Carolina is coming off its biggest win of the season, defeating Lexington 4-0. Dallas also most recently recorded a 3-0 victory against Brooklyn last Wednesday. 
  • Carolina is looking for its first win against Dallas. The teams drew 2-2 in October before Trinity won 1-0 the last time it came to Charlotte in November. 
  • Carolina (13) and Dallas (12) have the most unique goal scorers in the league. Every other club is between eight to 10. 
  • A win for either team could move them into first place in the standings depending on the outcome of Brooklyn vs Tampa Bay. 
  • Dallas Trinity goalkeeper Madison White leads the league with seven clean sheets, and Allie Thornton is tied for first in the Golden Boot race with nine goals. 
  • Carolina’s Emily Moxley, who made her debut with the team last weekend, played for the UNC Tar Heels from 2020-2023 alongside Dallas Trinity defender Julia Dorsey. 

Players to Watch

CAR – Audrey Harding: The midfielder finally found the back of the net, twice, after creating scoring opportunities all season long. Harding’s two goals and three assists puts her at third on the team in goal contributions. 

DAL – Sealey Strawn: The UNC commit continues to shine for Dallas this season. Strawn had a goal, two shots and three tackles on 71% passing accuracy against Brooklyn last week. 

 Carolina Ascent FC Dallas Trinity FC 
Head Coach Philip Poole Pauline MacDonald 
Club Record 8-5-7 8-4-6 
Standings 3rd 4th 

Spring steals: Which winter break additions are shining with their new teams? 

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Over the winter break, every USL Super League club signed and brought in new players on loan. While there were a few big names that we knew would make an immediate impact, others have shown themselves to be huge steals just two months into the Spring Schedule. 

Here are our top three spring steals this far: 

Gianna Gourley – DC Power FC

DC Power had the poorest offensive performance during the Fall Schedule. It had a league-worst conversion rate at 4.5% and recorded a league-fewest seven goals through the 14 matches – two of which were penalties, and another was gifted on an own goal. 

The team has already matched that total of seven goals in just four matches this spring, and all-but-one came in the run of play. DC is now averaging 1.75 goals per game this spring, behind only Dallas (2.5) and Carolina (2).  

A large part of this offensive burst is due to Gianna Gourley. We saw a glimpse of the striker’s talent while she was with Fort Lauderdale, but since her loan to the Capitol, she has provided a spark to the team’s floundering front line. Gourley has been ever-present, logging 360 minutes, and now leads DC with three goals, along with one assist and 10 shots, four of which have been on target. 

DC Interim Head Coach Phil Nana has frequently credited Gourley for her effort and skill over the last four matches. Although the team has still struggled to earn the results it would like, it has a lot to look forward to with Gourley now on its side. 

Laurel Ansbrow – Fort Lauderdale United FC

Laurel Ansbrow was fresh off an NCAA College Cup Final appearance with Wake Forest in December before joining FTL UTD this spring. While we saw her make history with the Demon Deacons last season, her short time in the Super League has been just as impressive. 

The center back is averaging a league-high 91% passing accuracy and ranks third among defenders in passes (310) and fourth in clearances (32) this spring. On top of that, she recorded an assist in her first match with Fort Lauderdale and has played all 540 minutes since joining the squad. 

With her center back partner Laveni Vaka out for the rest of the season with a knee injury, the 21-year-old will be the key piece to the team’s backline as it closes in on a playoff spot. 

Camryn Lancaster – Dallas Trinity FC

During the fall, Allie Thornton and Sam Meza were the two stars getting all the attention on Dallas’ offense. Once Meza completed her loan and returned to Seattle Reign, the focus shifted to the arrival of Texas Longhorn and USYNT midfielder Lexi Missimo. That overshadowed the addition of Camryn Lancaster a little, especially with the club announcing her only two days before its first match back. 

Lancaster played 23 minutes in her professional debut against Spokane, but it wasn’t until Dallas’ blowout win over Brooklyn that we saw what the TCU alum was made of. In her first start, she scored in first-half stoppage time and provided the run that led to Thornton’s first goal of the night. Lancaster later doubled her goal count in the following match. 

As another 2024 grad, Lancaster is young but has so much poise and skill in front of goal. All three of her shots have been on target, but she has also created three chances because she recognizes when the better option is to lay it off to her teammates. That high IQ paired with her speed and high press is a nightmare for defenders. 

It took Dallas a few matches to get things going, but it looks like the pieces are starting to click. Whether Lancaster is in the starting lineup or coming in off the bench, she will be an asset to Trinity going forward as it also makes a run for the postseason. 

Three teams in the hunt for the No. 1 spot | News & Notes Week 26

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REWIND: WEEK 25 NOTES

TB 1 – 2 SPK

  • GOALS:
    • Taylor Alymer (SPK) 61’ 
    • Natasha Flint (TB) 89’, Erika Tymrak assist. 
    • Ally Cook (SPK) 90+3’, Haley Thomas assist. 
  • STORYLINES:
    • STOPPAGE TIME: This match was the second-consecutive match that Spokane scored a 90+3’ stoppage time game-winner.  
    • FIRST ASSIST: Erika Tymrak recorded her first assist of the season.  
    • SIX: Natasha Flint recorded her sixth goal of the season.   
    • SNAPPED THE STREAK: Tampa Bay was previously undefeated (4-0-2) in its last six matches at Riverfront Stadium. Spokane became the first road team to win there since September 14. 
  • QUOTES:
    • Tampa Bay Head Coach Denise Schilte-Brown:  
      • On the team’s progress and performance… “We’ve been working hard as a team, building trust, and staying committed to our process. In many ways, we made progress in this game—we defended set pieces well and capitalized on one ourselves. However, a lapse in focus cost us tonight. With this short break, we’ll regroup, refocus, and come back stronger.” 
    • Tampa Bay goal scorer Natasha Flint: 
      • On what went wrong after equalizing… “When it got to 1-1, we should have just packed the bus and taken the one point, but we went for it, and it didn’t turn out in our favor.” 
    • Spokane Head Coach Jo Johnson: 
      • On the team’s win… “What a performance from the team today, from the first whistle to the last. I always say, ‘It takes what it takes’ to win games, and our players embodied that tonight. It wasn’t always pretty, but we did what was necessary to secure all three points.” 
    • Spokane goal scorer Ally Cook:  
      • On scoring the game-winner… “I was so proud of our team fighting for all 90-plus minutes. I knew we were going to be disappointed if we ended in a tie, so it felt so good to get the goal for the team.” 

BKN 0 – 3 DAL

  • GOALS:
    • Camryn Lancaster (DAL) 7’ 
    • Allie Thornton (DAL) 19’ 
    • Sealey Strawn (DAL) 58’ 
  • STORYLINES:
    • GOLDEN BOOT RACE: Allie Thornton recorded her ninth goal of the season, tying Fort Lauderdale’s Addie McCain for the most in the league. 
    • YOUNG STAR: 17-year-old Sealey Strawn recorded her second goal of the season, tying her for third on the team with four goal contributions. 
    • SHUTOUTS: Brooklyn was held scoreless for the fourth-straight match. 
    • CLEAN SHEET: Dallas goalkeeper Madison White recorded her league-leading seventh clean sheet of the season. 
  • QUOTES:
    • Brooklyn Head Coach Jess Silva:  
      • On what’s going wrong for the team… “We haven’t scored goals. So it’s hard to win a match right now. We’re paying for every individual mistake we make. And if you look at today’s game, we dominated most of the game. We played a really good football match from beginning to end, but they scored on us when we committed errors, and we haven’t been able to score.” 
    • Brooklyn defender Kelsey Hill: 
      • On what has changed in the team… “Shutouts were our standard in the first part of the season, and unfortunately, that has not been the case so far. I think kind of like Coach Jess said, there’s some individual mistakes happening that our opponents are taking the opportunities on. So, I think we just need to keep doing the 1% getting better every day and training, and then hopefully the results will start to change.” 
    • Dallas Head Coach Pauline MacDonald:  
      • On playing Brooklyn for the second time this month… “It’s always really difficult when you play a team in back-to-back games, especially after a very successful victory at home. Tonight, we knew that they were going to come after us and it was going to be a very physical game. We wanted to stick by our philosophy in the way that we want to play. In the end, credit to Brooklyn, they continued to try and continued to throw numbers forward. It wasn’t particularly pretty defending from us in moments, but it takes grit, determination and hard work. I’m absolutely delighted.” 
    • Dallas goal scorer Camryn Lancaster:  
      • On the transition from college to the pro level… “I feel like TCU really prepared me for any moment that I’ve faced. Being in the pros now, I’ve only been here for a couple months, but I feel really prepared coming into this with the intensity and speed of play. The girls here have made it easy, and I’m just blessed to be on an awesome first professional team where I’m learning a lot from both the older players and younger players.” 

FTL 0 – 0 SPK

  • GOALS:
    • N/A
  • STORYLINES:
    • UNBEATEN: Fort Lauderdale is now unbeaten (6-0-3) through nine matches. 
    • FIRST NIL-NIL: This match was the first time that Fort Lauderdale was involved in a scoreless draw this season. It was just the third time the team was held scoreless. 
    • SNAPPED THE STREAK: This draw ended an eight-match streak where FTL had scored at least one goal. 
    • CLEAN SHEETS: FTL’s Cosette Morché and Spokane’s Hope Hisey both recorded their fifth clean sheets of the season. They are tied for third-most in the league. 
  • QUOTES:
    • FTL Head Coach Tyrone Mears:  
      • On the teams record and performance… “That makes nine straight unbeaten, which speaks to the resilience of this group. But tonight’s performance wasn’t up to our standard—we expect more from ourselves. We know we’re capable of better. As we head into our fourth matchup with Tampa, especially on the road, we’re looking for a strong response. It’s a great opportunity to reset, raise our level, and show what we’re really about.” 
    • FTL defender Laurel Ansbrow: 
      • On earning another clean sheet… “It’s just a surreal feeling. I think everything happened so fast to get here, but I’m really happy with Fort Lauderdale, and I love the team. I think it’s just a testament to the back line as a whole, and I think it was a really strong performance for this game, last game, and just this whole time I’ve been here. Cosette in goal has made some incredible saves as well, so none of it would be possible without them.” 
    • Spokane Head Coach Jo Johnson: 
      • On the positive week her team had… “I’m proud of the team for earning seven out of nine points in a week. It’s a testament to the players’ resilience, focus and commitment to each other.” 
    • Spokane defender Alyssa Bourgeois:  
      • On the team’s grit and resilience… “Unbelievably proud of the team’s performance today. This was our third game in a week and second one on the road. Despite all the obstacles, we didn’t complain—we embraced the challenges and put up a great performance against a talented team. Disappointed we didn’t walk away with all three points, but we’re focused on recovering and getting ready for the next game.” 

DC 1 – 1 BKN

  • GOALS:
    • Mackenzie George (BKN) 23’, Grace Phillpotts assist.  
    • Gianna Gourley (DC) 84’, Claire Constant assist. 
  • STORYLINES:
    • RE-FINDING ITS STRIDE: Brooklyn scored its first goal since February 22, after being shut out the previous four matches. 
    • ASSISTS: Grace Phillpotts and Claire Constant both recorded their first assists of the season. 
    • LEADING SCORERS: Gianna Gourley is now DC’s leading goal-scorer with three goals. Mackenzie George scored her fourth goal of the season, tying Jess Garziano and Luana Grabias for the most on Brooklyn. 
    • SPRING SCORING: DC Power has now scored the same number of goals (7) through its first four spring matches as it did through all 14 matches in the fall. 
  • QUOTES:
    • DC Interim Head Coach Phil Nana:  
      • On Gourley’s equalizer… “This one happened in transition. We caught their back line playing a little too high and they didn’t do a good enough job of detecting the speed of Gourley. Gourley does what she does best and puts the ball in the back of the net.” 
    • DC goal scorer Gianna Gourley: 
      • On the team’s aggressiveness in the second half… “Power to the team. We really had to dig deep these last few games, and the results haven’t been falling the way we want. Fighting through and not giving up on each other has been huge. We keep fighting and showing up every day.” 
    • Brooklyn Head Coach Jess Silva: 
      • On the toughness of the league and how they will move forward… “We always knew this was going to be a tight league. The second part of the year has been and will continue to be a challenge. Our group is aware and has been playing good football. Hard work eventually pays off, we just have to keep pushing and stick to the process.” 
    • Brooklyn defender Grace Phillpotts:  
      • On her first start and assist… “I was looking for the slotted ball into the box the whole time. I was originally trying to find Dana at the back post, but the goalie did end up getting a hand on it so I’m glad Mackenzie was there to put it in the back of the net. Also, so much credit to Mackenzie for making the play from the beginning to the end.” 

LEX 0 – 4 CAR

  • GOALS:
    • Riley Parker (CAR) 2’ 
    • Mia Corbin (CAR) 19’ 
    • Audrey Harding (CAR) 26’, Taylor Porter assist. 
    • Audrey Harding (CAR) 62’, Jill Aguilera assist. 
  • STORYLINES:
    • FAST FIND: Riley Parker’s goal was scored in one minute and 37 seconds, setting a record for the fastest goal in league history. The record was previously held by Fort Lauderdale’s Jasmine Hamid, who scored in one minute and 49 seconds on December 1, 2024. 
    • BAGGED A BRACE: Audrey Harding recorded her first two goals of the season and Carolina’s second-ever brace. 
    • FIRSTS: Riley Parker recorded her first goal of the season, and Taylor Porter recorded her first assist. 
    • FIVE: Jill Aguilera recorded her fifth assist of the season, tying her for first in the league with Lexington’s Madi Parsons and Maddy Perez. 
    • CLEAN SHEET: The match was goalkeeper Samantha Leshnak Murphy’s first clean sheet of the season and Carolina’s first since November 9. 
    • RECORD-BREAKING: Carolina recorded 24 total shots and 12 shots on target, both are records for most by a team in a single match. 
    • SARAH’S SAVES: Lexington goalkeeper Sarah Cox made eight saves, tying the record for most in a single match. 
    • FOUR GOALS: Carolina’s four goals are the most it has scored in a single match and the second-most scored by a team in a single match in league history. 
  • QUOTES:
    • Lexington Interim Head Coach Sam Stockley:  
      • On what the team needs to improve on… “We’ve got to clean up our play and be better in possession. But it’s a work in progress—we knew that.” 
    • Lexington goalkeeper Sarah Cox: 
      • On the team’s performance… “There were moments where we executed well and competed in ways that align with our team goals. I don’t think we did it enough, but it is what it is. We’ll move on, build on this and focus on the next game.” 
    • Carolina Head Coach Philip Poole: 
      • On a team-high four goals scored… “We’ve talked about the fact that if we keep doing the right things, keep working in training, we know at some point some of these chances are going to go in. And despite the four goals, we could’ve had several more. So, we haven’t turned the corner yet. We are going to continue to work.” 
    • Carolina goal scorer Audrey Harding:  
      • On her two-goal performance… “It was great to finally get some goals. Even since the fall, I was super close and then got injured and was out the rest of the Fall Schedule. So, coming back this spring, I had a higher standard for myself because I know what I’m capable of, and I just want to help us win. My confidence is definitely up, and I feel like since getting the goals today, I’ve unlocked the door to more.” 

WEEK 26 SCHEDULE

Saturday, March 29th 
Brooklyn FC v Tampa Bay Sun FC, 6:00 p.m. ET 
Carolina Ascent FC v Dallas Trinity FC, 7:00 p.m. ET 

WEEK 26 STORYLINES

TOP OF THE TABLE 
Two points separate the top four clubs in the league standings. A win for Brooklyn, Carolina or Dallas this weekend could temporarily put the team in the No. 1 spot. A win for Tampa Bay would put the team just a point behind fourth-place Dallas. 

SIX APIECE 
Tampa Bay’s Carlee Giammona, Natasha Flint and Cecilie Fløe have each scored six goals this season. No other club has three different scorers with 5+ goals each. 

UNBEATEN STREAK 
Fort Lauderdale’s draw with Spokane marked its ninth consecutive match without a loss. The team is just two matches away from tying the record set by Carolina Ascent, which started the season unbeaten through 11 matches. 

NEW LEAGUE LEADERS 
Last week, Dallas’ Allie Thornton scored her ninth goal of the season, tying Fort Lauderdale’s Addie McCain for the most in the league. Carolina’s Jill Aguilera recorded her fifth assist of the season, tying her for first in the league with Lexington’s Madi Parsons and Maddy Perez. Lastly, Dallas goalkeeper Madison White earned her league-leading seventh clean sheet. 

COLLEGE CONNECTIONS 
Carolina’s Emily Moxley, who made her debut with the team last weekend, played for the UNC Tar Heels from 2020-2023 alongside Dallas Trinity defender Julia Dorsey. 

Tampa Bay’s Carlee Giammona played at the University of Alabama in 2019 with Brooklyn defender Sasha Pickard, and later transferred to Pepperdine, where she played three seasons with Brooklyn center back Kelsey Hill. 

LOST IN NY 
Brooklyn FC is still searching for its first win of the Spring Schedule after going 0-3-3 in its first six matches of 2025. Brooklyn’s last win was during the Fall Finale when the team handed Dallas its first loss at the Cotton Bowl on December 14.  

DISCIPLINE REPORT – WEEK 26

TAMPA, Fla. – There are no new suspensions to report. 

LEAGUE LEADERS

GOALS:

  • Addie McCain (FTL) – 9 goals 
  • Allie Thornton (DAL) – 9 goals  
  • Jasmine Hamid (FTL) – 7 goals  
  • Mia Corbin (CAR) – 7 goals  
  • Carlee Giammona (TB) – 6 goals 
  • Cecilie Fløe (TB) – 6 goals 
  • Natasha Flint (TB) – 6 goals  
  • Madison Parsons (LEX) – 5 goals  
  • Emina Ekić (SPK) – 5 goals 

ASSISTS:

  • Madison Perez (LEX) – 5 assists  
  • Madi Parsons (LEX) – 5 assists 
  • Jill Aguilera (CAR) – 5 assists  
  • Mackenzie Pluck (BKN) – 4 assists 
  • Emina Ekić (SPK) – 4 assists 
  • Shea Moyer (LEX) – 4 assists 
  • Chioma Ubogagu (DAL) – 4 assists 
  • Kiara Locklear (FTL) – 4 assists 

CLEAN SHEETS:

  • Madison White (DAL) – 7 clean sheets  
  • Meagan McClelland (CAR) – 6 clean sheets 
  • Cosette Morche (FTL) – 5 clean sheets  
  • Hope Hisey (SPK) – 5 clean sheets  
  • Sydney Martinez (BKN) – 4 clean sheets 
  • Morgan Aquino (DC) – 4 clean sheets 
  • Neeku Purcell (BKN) – 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) 
  • CAR – Audrey Harding (03.23.25) 

What drew Dallas Trinity’s Amber Brooks to the Super League | Super League Game Week

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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.

Super League Power Rankings – Week 25

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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

2 SPK 2 TB, LEX

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: —
2
Last 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		 2
Last 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.

Addie vs Allie: Who has the edge in the Golden Boot race?

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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

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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

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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.” 

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.” 

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.” 

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)