Key Transactions
Since the conclusion of the 2021 NWSL Challenge Cup, the Spirit have signed defender Camryn Biegalski to a one-year contract after she was previously signed as a National Team Replacement Player in April. Off the field, the Spirit announced this week additions to its investor group, highlighted by Washington Capitals star Alexander Ovechkin.
Recent Form
The Spirit finished the NWSL Challenge Cup with a record of 1-2-1, sitting at fourth in the East upon conclusion of the competition. Washington fell to both North Carolina and the Pride to account for their two losses, while earning a 1-0 shutout victory over Racing Louisville and finishing their four-game slate with a scoreless draw against eventual top-finishers in the East, Gotham FC.
Who’s Hot
Three members of the Spirit found the back of the net in the Challenge Cup in 2021 NWSL Draft selection Trinity Rodman, along with forwards Ashley Sanchez and Kumi Yokoyama. Rodman, Dorian Bailey and Natalie Jacobs each registered an assist in the competition, while goalkeeper Aubrey Bledsoe tied for fourth in NWSL with 12 saves to her credit.
Head-to-Head
The Pride hold a 5-5-2 record against the Spirit throughout Club history in all competitions, the most recent victory coming just less than a month ago in Challenge Cup play. Forward Sydney Leroux scored the eventual game-winner for the Pride in the 11th minute, while goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris registered a Challenge Cup-high nine saves to preserve the clean sheet in the eventual 1-0 victory for the home side.
Rasmussen College Fun Fact
Both the Pride and Orlando City SC will face off against a team from our nation’s capital on Sunday, with the Lions set to face D.C. United at 8 p.m. ET at Audi Field just hours after the Pride take on the Spirit at Exploria Stadium.
