Rose Lavelle, Crystal Dunn finish off Group A second to rivals Mexico

Group A of the CONCACAF W Gold Cup wrapped up with a matchup between favorites to win in the USWNT, taking on their southern rivals Mexico in Carson, California. Mexico got the better of the US ladies, winning 2-0 to close out the group. The result came as a shock, while fans were able to see some of the NJ/NY Gotham FC players in action on Monday.   

Gotham FC continues to earn minutes at the Gold Cup

Lynn Williams saw her second start of the tournament, along with Rose Lavelle and Crystal Dunn. Jenna Nighswonger remained on the bench with Midge Purce, Tierna Davidson, and Emily Sonnett. 

Lavelle continues to control the center of the pitch brilliantly, feeding the balls while winning almost every challenge attempted, which is a great sign that Gotham FC’s midfield will be in good hands with her presence. 

Dunn is also showing her form, displaying superb footwork and speed on the left side of the pitch. Williams, however, struggled to get involved in the match, especially in the first half while failing to get a single shot. 

Williams was later taken off at halftime for her teammate, Sonnett. She had come off the bench the last two matches since starting the first fixture against the Dominican Republic.

Gotham fans were also able to see the return of Midge Purce to the pitch after she was subbed on for Emily Fox in the 69th minute. She was an unused sub during the 4-0 win over Argentina since her two assists day against the Dominican Republic last week.  

Unfortunately for the USWNT, they suffered the shocking 2-0 loss to Mexico but still advanced to the next round. Both Lavelle and Dunn are expected to play big roles heading into the knockout round, while Nighswonger and Davidson look to return to the pitch for the weekend’s quarterfinals.