Washington dominates Racing Louisville 4-1 as Rodman returns

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Washington Spirit vs. Racing Louisville FC - Game Highlights

Watch the Game Highlights from Washington Spirit vs. Racing Louisville FC, 10/14/2024

Oct 14, 2024, 01:57 am

The Washington Spirit, buoyed by the efforts of Makenna Morris, beat Racing Louisville FC 4-1 at Audi Field on Sunday as forward Trinity Rodman returned from injury. Morris scored twice in the first half to lead the charge for the Spirit, who clinched home-field advantage during the quarterfinals with the victory.

Rodman, the U.S. women's national team forward who suffered a back injury in the Spirit's game against Kansas City on Sept. 20, came on for Courtney Brown in the 67th minute Sunday and had no goals or shots.

Morris opened the scoring in the 36th minute with a right-footed shot from the right side of the box that found its way into the top right corner. She doubled her tally just seven minutes later, converting from close range after an assist from Rosemonde Kouassi.

Ashley Hatch added to Washington's lead early in the second half, converting a penalty kick in the 56th minute following a foul drawn by Kouassi. Lena Silano capped off an impressive performance for Washington with a long-range effort in stoppage time.

Emma Sears provided some consolation for Racing Louisville (6-7-11) with a goal in the 72nd minute, assisted by Ary Borges and confirmed after VAR review. Despite their best efforts, including two attempts on target by Kayla Fischer and one by Savannah DeMelo, they were unable to mount a comeback against Washington's solid defense led by goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury, who made four saves.

Racing Louisville struggled defensively throughout as Katie Lund faced relentless pressure from Washington's attack. Lund managed two saves but conceded the four goals as her team failed to contain Morris & Co.

With this win, the Washington Spirit improved their record to an impressive 16-2-6 (47 points), further cementing their position at or near top of league standings while Racing Louisville remains midtable with its current record reflecting ongoing struggles this season.

Up next: Washington faces the Chicago Red Stars on Oct. 20 at Audi Field. Louisville will host the Portland Thorns on Saturday.

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