3 things we learned from Gotham FC's 1-0 victory over the Utah Royals

Looking to bounce back from a disappointing performance on Thursday following their 0-0 draw against C.F. Monterrey Femenil, NJ/NY Gotham FC beat Utah Royals FC 1-0 to secure a spot in the 2024 NWSL playoffs.

It was a more even affair than expected as the last-place Royals had more than their fair share of chances to get an equalizing goal. They were denied though by Gotham FC's defense who earned their third clean sheet in a row.

The one and only goal came early as Yazmeen Ryan scored in the third minute off of a Lynn Williams assist. There was originally some concern that Williams, who is starting her first NWSL game since May 19, may have strayed offside in the buildup to the goal. Upon further inspection, she had timed her run perfectly and managed a great cross-goal pass to find Ryan who fired home her fifth goal in all competitions this season.

Despite the bigger-than-expected challenge, the Bats managed to get the job done and lock in their spot in the playoffs. Here are three things we learned from Gotham FC's win over Utah.

3 things we learned from Gotham FC's 1-0 victory

1. Gotham FC is built for the playoffs

The name of the game in the playoffs is two words long; just win. Style of play kind of goes out the window and it becomes all about finding the simplest way to outscore your opponent no matter how ugly or boring it may be. Gotham FC more than proved that they are a team built for the playoffs in last year's championship run. And while there may have been some fears that DNA may have been altered after they reshaped their roster in the offseason, some of these recent wins have proven that it is not only still there, but maybe even stronger than before.

Nine of their thirteen NWSL wins have been by one goal, and one-goal games are going to be the norm come playoff time. Gotham's ability to not just win by one goal but seemingly be comfortable playing with just a one-goal advantage will be crucial in their quest to repeat.

2. Yazmeen Ryan is Gotham's most improved player

It may be confusing to think that a key starter in a championship-winning team could have room to be a team's most improved player, but that is exactly the case with Ryan. While the quality has been noticeable from her first game with Gotham, the lack of consistency in her final product was something Ryan could very clearly improve upon. And boy has she.

There is a very real chance that her goal and assist totals from this year could eclipse her totals from her first two seasons combined. She's currently on five goals and five assists on the season, only needing one more in both categories to tie, and two in each to pass. And she is rounding into form just in time for the playoffs. She has three goals and an assist in her last five games. If Gotham goes back-to-back, then Ryan will be a big reason why.

3. Lynn Williams is Gotham FC's best player

It is a real credit to the NJ/NY team's strong squad that they could play as consistently well as they have while missing Williams for so much of the season. Whether it be her ability, head coach Juan Carlos Amorós' system, or a combination of the two, anytime one watches Williams in a Gotham uniform it becomes very clear that she is their best player.

There just seems to be an added dynamism and offensive threat for the Bats when Williams is on the field. Not to mention the chemistry between her and Jenna Nighswonger down the left flank which tends to be where most of the attacks originate from when they are both on the field. Like Ryan, a healthy and contributing Williams is crucial in Gotham FC's quest to repeat.