Gotham FC defeats Chicago Red Stars 2-0 with late goals

NJ/NY Gotham FC, buoyed by the late efforts of Lynn Williams and Esther González, beat the host Chicago Red Stars 2-0 at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Illinois, on Saturday.

The victory clinched a top-4 playoff seed for Gotham and a chance to host a postseason match. Gotham has won 14 of its past 18 matches.

Williams helped Gotham FC open the scoring in the 87th minute by converting a penalty kick after Ella Stevens drew a foul in the box that was confirmed by VAR. González sealed the victory for Gotham FC (15-5-4) with an additional goal in the eighth minute of stoppage time, assisted by a Jéssica Silva cross.

Chicago's defense held strong through most of the match but ultimately couldn't withstand Gotham's persistent attacks. Goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher made three saves for Chicago (10-2-12), while Mallory Swanson had two shots, including one on target, but was unable to find the back of the net.

For Gotham FC, goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger had to make only one save. The defensive line led by Emily Sonnett and Tierna Davidson effectively neutralized Chicago's offensive threats, giving up only Swanson's two shots.

In addition to their goal scorers, other notable performances for Gotham came from Rose Lavelle who contributed significantly in midfield playmaking and Jenna Nighswonger who had two close attempts that narrowly missed.

With the win, Gotham FC (50 points) moved into second place in the standings, seven points behind the Orlando Pride. Chicago (32 points) remains in a playoff spot in sixth place.

Up next: Gotham FC will host Orlando on Sunday, Oct. 20. Chicago will be on the road against the Washington Spirit on the same day.

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