3 things we learned from Gotham FC's Champions Cup draw with Washington

On Wednesday, NJ/NY Gotham FC played their final match of the group round of the CONCACAF W Champions Cup.  They faced the Washington Spirit for a one-night-only home game at Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania.  Although it felt like more of a neutral game.  Hence, a neutral result was not shocking.  The Bats and the Spirit finished the evening in a 0-0 draw, securing their spot in the semifinals in the spring.

Entering the matchup, Gotham FC knew they could beat the Spirit based on some of the recent performances and based on the fact that they beat them on the road earlier this year.  And of course, there was the most recent draw, making this result the second 0-0 draw in a row in all competitions.

Truthfully, both teams easily could have found the back of the net.  But strong defensive work kept the match scoreless.  It was also an entertaining watch.  Sure, three points and a first-place finish were preferred for the NJ/NY side, but at least they are moving on.

With the Champions Cup over until spring, here are three things we learned from the game between Gotham FC and the Washington Spirit.

Shelby Hogan stepped up for Gotham FC

A good portion of the first half was spent in Gotham FC’s defensive third.  Washington was more dangerous in the attack, so the Bats had to be at their best.  While both teams had heavy rotation, the backline had mostly veterans like Mandy Freeman and Jess Carter.  Plus, Shelby Hogan, who could easily start elsewhere in the NWSL, was between the sticks. 

The goalkeeper stepped up, which is not shocking for someone of her quality.  Still, she was vital in the match.  She made three saves and had some impressive moments throughout the 90 minutes of play.  She was also smart in knowing when to come off her line and punch the ball out of the way.

Gotham had more attacking chances in the second half, and arguably Hogan kept her team in the match during those first 45 minutes.  But she still had plenty of work to do throughout the entire evening.  One of her best saves of the night came in the 50th minute.  Sofia Cantore had a spectacular strike, and the keeper had to react quickly.  She swiftly stretched to her right and forced the ball away.

Hogan was the MVP during the game, but everyone deserves the credit for keeping the Spirit out of the goal.

Katie Stengel should have more goals

Katie Stengel has finally scored for Gotham FC after scoring in the last Champions Cup game against Vancouver Rise FC Academy and in the last NWSL match against Portland Thorns FC.  However, it was clear in Wednesday’s game that she should have scored more goals.

Since rejoining Gotham, Stengel has had multiple misses.  But she has also had shots that should have ended in the back of the net.  For example, right before halftime, she had the best shot of the first half.  Her powerful flick unfortunately went right to Sandy MacIver.  Stengel also had an opportunity early in the second half, when Jaelin Howell’s pass went right to her in front of the goal, and she could not convert.  Instead, it was saved.

In the end, Stengel had three shots with two on target.  She was influential in the attack, but sadly could not score.  Hopefully, she will find the back of the net a few more times before Gotham FC’s NWSL regular season is completed.

Gotham FC will probably finish in second place

After the 0-0 draw, the Bats confirmed their place in the semifinals.  They still have to wait and see whether they will finish in first or second place.  Washington has one more game to play, and will probably win against C.F. Monterrey Femenil.

If the Spirit does win, then they will finish Group B in first due to goal differential.  Hence, Gotham would finish in second place.  It is not a guarantee, but based on how Washington has been playing, one can easily assume that will be the case. 

Nevertheless, the NJ/NY team finished their group in second place in the last campaign and then went on to win it all.  So, Gotham FC should be okay no matter what.