Lynn Williams scores twice in Julie Ertz's USWNT farewell match

On Thursday, NJ/NY Gotham FC star Lynn Williams started for the United States Women's National Team against South Africa. It was Julie Ertz's farewell match, so the emotions were running high before the opening whistle could blow.

After a slow start, the USWNT managed to win, 3-0. It was Williams though who had herself a stellar game, for she scored twice in the first half.

Lynn Williams scores twice in Thursday's USWNT game

The Gotham player opened up the scoring in the 32nd minute. Lindsey Horan sent the ball into the box from a corner kick. The ball bounced off Ertz's head and fell right to Williams on the line. She headed the ball right into the back of the net, subsequently putting the US in front for the rest of the match.

That goal would actually be the last contribution from Ertz. While she was not credited with the assist, the ball did end where Williams was due to the deflection on her head, even if it hit a South African player. The retiring American was brought out of the game a few minutes late to a round of applause.

Still, Williams was not done yet. In the 41st minute, she scored again from a corner kick. She was in front of the left side of the goal when the ball flew into the box. Horan flicked the ball to the Gotham player, and Williams used her body to bring the ball down onto her foot and pushed it into the goal.

In the end, Williams played all of the 90 minutes. She had four total shots, with two on target. Her attacking presence was a threat the entire time. Also, she proved why she continues to get call-ups to the USWNT.

In addition, Williams' performance makes one wonder what if she did get more playing time at the World Cup. It reminded everyone why she received the contract extension with Gotham FC too. She is one of the best forwards in the NWSL. Clearly, she can contribute to the USWNT and should earn more starts.