Trinity Rodman, recovering from an injury, nets the game-winning goal for Spirit's team
Trinity Rodman's Game-Winning Goal Kick-Starts New Era for Washington Spirit
In a thrilling turn of events, Trinity Rodman scored the winning goal in the Washington Spirit's 2-1 victory over the Portland Thorns. The goal, met with stadium-wide celebrations, came in the 72nd minute of the match, after Rodman replaced Rosemonde Kouassi.
Rodman's return to action on August 3rd marked a significant milestone, as she made her comeback after a four-month back injury. The victory against Portland signified the beginning of a new era for the Spirit, with Adrian Gonzalez taking over as the permanent head coach after the departure of Jonatan Giraldez.
Rodman's future with the team, however, remains uncertain. As a free agent eligible to sign elsewhere after the season, her contract with the Washington Spirit ends in 2025. Despite her emotional and impactful return to play, negotiations for a new contract are ongoing, and a move to Europe has been suggested as likely.
The Spirit's captain, Aubrey Kingsbury, surpassed Tori Huster as the player with the most regular season appearances in club history during this game. The victory was crucial for their push for a playoff spot, as they are currently third in the table on 26 points.
In the first half, Olivia Moultrie tied the game for the Thorns in first half stoppage time. The Spirit took the lead early in the match through a Gift Monday goal. The Spirit struggled for consistency in the first half of the season, going several games without a goal at Audi Field.
The Spirit's game against Portland was the first match under Adrian Gonzalez as the permanent head coach. The winning goal was a result of a bending cross from Midfielder Courtney Brown and a deft flick from playmaker Croix Bethune.
Trinity Rodman is working towards full-match fitness, aiming to avoid a relapse and be in peak condition for the playoffs. The Spirit's next game is against Gotham FC on August 9th, followed by a game against Racing Louisville at Audi Field.
Meanwhile, the Spirit's Concacaf W Champions Cup journey begins on August 19th against Alianza from El Salvador. Rodman's mental health has become a priority in her recovery process, and she has been working on the floated back post cross in training leading up to the match.
- ESPN
- The Washington Post
- Sports Illustrated
- The Athletic
In the world of National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), the Washington Spirit has recently been basking in the excitement of Trinity Rodman's game-winning goal against the Portland Thorns, a victory that also marks the beginning of a new era under the guidance of Adrian Gonzalez. On the other hand, Rodman's future with the team seems undefined, with speculations of her potential move to Europe after the season. (Sports, Football)
Meanwhile, the Portland Thorns, Portland's NWSL team, have had mixed results with Olivia Moultrie tying a game against the Washington Spirit, while the Spirit came out on top with goals from Gift Monday and Trinity Rodman. (Washington Spirit, Portland Thorns)
