Ashley Hatch's goal lifts Washington Spirit over North Carolina Courage

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North Carolina Courage vs. Washington Spirit - Game Highlights

Watch the Game Highlights from North Carolina Courage vs. Washington Spirit, 11/03/2024

Nov 3, 2024, 02:27 am

The Washington Spirit, buoyed by the efforts of Ashley Hatch, beat the host North Carolina Courage 1-0 at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina, on Saturday. Hatch scored in the 37th minute to lead her team to victory.

Hatch's left-footed shot from outside the box found the top right corner of the net, assisted by Makenna Morris. The Spirit (18-2-6) moved into second place in the standings. Although tied on points (56) with NJ/NY Gotham FC, Washington has a two-goal edge in goal differential. Washington, which had lost four in a row to North Carolina, also ended the Courage's 21-match unbeaten streak at home, one short of the NWSL record.

Casey Murphy made three saves for North Carolina (12-3-11), but it wasn't enough to keep a clean sheet. 

For Washington, Trinity Rodman was active throughout, recording five shots but only one on goal. Goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury faced only one shot on target and secured a clean sheet.

In addition to Hatch's decisive goal, other notable performances included Courtney Brown and Gabrielle Carle who both had attempts that tested Murphy early in the game. Despite several substitutions aimed at bolstering their attack -- such as Denise O'Sullivan replacing Riley Jackson -- the Courage couldn't find an equalizer.

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