Gotham FC vs Racing Louisville FC preview: The search for goals continue

Last week, NJ/NY Gotham FC continued their rough start to 2024 in the 2-0 loss against the Washington Spirit.  While the main issue has been the lack of goals, this fixture saw the Bats play poorly at times, lacking cohesion and an understanding of one another.

They have an opportunity to reverse their misfortunes this time when Racing Louisville FC comes to New Jersey.  Interestingly, they have not lost as of yet, for they are 1-0-4.  However, their first win came against Utah Royals FC on April 20.  Therefore, they might use that win to spark a run.

That is why it is critical that the defense is on point.  No errors can be made, for Gotham FC cannot guarantee their goal-scoring boots will return.  At the same time, they need to score, for the ladies will be without Tierna Davidson.  She has been the leader in the backline and the main reason more goals have not been scored against the Bats.  At least it was confirmed she will not miss too much time, for she could return in about a week.

Will Gotham FC secure the much-needed three points?  Here is a preview of the game against Racing Louisville.          

Date

Gotham FC and Racing Louisville FC will play one another on Sunday, April 28.

Time

The game is at 5:00 PM ET.

Location

The match will occur in Harrison, NJ at Red Bull Arena.

How to watch

Fans can watch the game on NWSL+.  The streaming service is free.  In addition, the match will be available on the MSG networks, either on MSG2 or MSGSN.  It is also available on MSG+.

Weather

As of right now, it will be partly cloudy in Harrison at the time of kickoff.  It will be about 74 degrees, and the humidity will not be too bad.  This should be a beautiful evening for the beautiful game.

Injury report

Midge Purce (knee) is out for the year. Abby Smith (lower leg), Taylor Smith (thigh), and McCall Zerboni (knee) are on the season-ending injury list at this time. Davidson (lower leg), Kristen Edmonds (knee), Svava Guðmundsdóttir (excused absence), and Kelley O'Hara (knee) are all out.

Then, Sinead Farrelly (thigh), Mandy Freeman (thigh), Rose Lavelle (lower leg), and Maitane López (illness) are questionable for Sunday's game.

Players to watch

Gotham FC fans should watch Lynn Williams.  The star returned to the Starting XI last weekend, adjusting to her increase in minutes and some of her new teammates.  It is expected she will continue to return to her usual self.  As such, it will be interesting to see what she does against Racing.

On the other team, supporters should pay attention to Uchenna Kanu.  The Nigerian forward has four goals so far in the NWSL season.  She is a huge threat on the wings and will likely be a challenging player to stop.

Prediction

After the rough start to 2024, it is important to be positive.  In addition, Gotham FC has a team capable of winning.  Hence, it is predicted that the Bats will win 2-0.  There will be two different goal-scorers.  Plus, it does not matter who will be between the sticks, for the goalkeeper will lead to a clean sheet.