3 things we learned from Gotham FC's superb win over the Orlando Pride

Current and former players from all over the USWNT and NWSL were out in full force for the last regular season home game for NJ/NY Gotham FC.  The team was celebrating Kelley O’Hara, who is retiring at the end of the season.  She sadly played her last match in September, for her knee injury forced her on the season-ending injury list.

While there was plenty to celebrate, the Bats knew they had focus and dial in to beat the Orlando Pride. The visitors already won the Shield but put out a strong Starting XI. Gotham FC did the same but were missing their starting center-backs Tierna Davidson and Emily Sonnett. As a result, Jess Carter and Sam Hiatt moved into the roles while Mandy Freeman took over the right-back position. 

Thankfully, the Starting XI worked, for Gotham FC beat the Orlando Pride 3-1.  This is only the Florida team’s second loss of the NWSL season and second in a row.  In addition, the Bats’ unbeaten streak since they lost to the Pride on September 1 continues.  Sam Hiatt, Rose Lavelle, and Ella Stevens scored to earn the team all three points.

This was a fantastic win. Here are three things we learned from Gotham FC’s match against the Orlando Pride.

3 things we learned from Gotham FC's 3-1 win

1. Gotham FC won against the Orlando Pride

Obviously, Gotham FC won their game against Orlando.  As mentioned, the Pride only lost for the first time last weekend.  That was against Portland Thorns FC, who have now lost three of their last four matches.  As such, the back-to-back losses have shown the NWSL that they are a beatable team.

More importantly, the Bats struggled in their last meeting.  The 2-0 loss could have been worse.  They still held on and kept the Pride from scoring more while failing to find the back of the net.  This time, it was different, for they scored three times.  Gotham found a way to capitalize on their chances while limiting the Pride’s ability to shoot.  This happened with Orlando maintaining about 55% of the possession.

The accomplishment of beating the best team in the league makes a statement.  The NJ/NY side is now unbeaten in their last 11 competitive games.  They are finishing the season out strongly, which means they will be one of the teams to beat in the NWSL Playoffs.

2. Sam Hiatt’s goal is maybe not a goal

At this time, and likely permanently, Hiatt has the opening goal for Gotham FC.  At first, it was given to her, and then to Stevens, and then it was again confirmed that she was the scorer. 

However, when one watches the goal, it is questionable whether she touched the ball at all.  Lavelle sent the ball into the box from a corner kick, and it did look like Stevens might have touched the ball or even an Orlando player.  After, it looked like Hiatt held back and did not score.  Still, the NWSL gave the goal to her, which means that would be her first on the season. 

3. What does the result mean for Gotham FC?

Since the Washington Spirit and Kansas City Current won their matches, Gotham FC can still finish the regular season in second, third, or fourth place.  This makes the Decision Day game more important than before.  A loss could see the Bats fall to fourth, but guarantees they cannot finish in second place behind the Orlando Pride.

Finishing in second would guarantee another home playoff win if the Bats were to win their first.  They need to beat Utah Royals FC on the road and for Washington to lose or draw their fixture.  Otherwise, if both teams were to win, there is a slim chance for the Spirit to fall in the standings unless something crazy happens with the goal difference.

When the NWSL returns after the international break, there will be craziness on Decision Day.  Fans will not want to miss Gotham FC’s match and will want to follow the other teams.