FootyPop: Alex Morgan Wins Golden Boot for the First Time in Her Career
This week, the NWSL concluded in one heck of a chaotic weekend. The top six spots are locked headed into the playoffs. The USWNT is gearing up for their friendly matches against England and Spain, with some new and old faces making the roster. In addition, NCAA soccer is raging on. So, without further ado, here’s this week’s women’s soccer news.
High of the Weekend
Alex struck gold. pic.twitter.com/T5VvR1WhzO
— San Diego Wave FC (@sandiegowavefc) October 3, 2022
Alex Morgan struck gold by securing the Golden Boot for this NWSL season with 15 goals–her best since being in the league!
Low of the Weekend
Club Update: pic.twitter.com/NmTKNm8dTy
— San Diego Wave FC (@sandiegowavefc) September 27, 2022
The San Diego Wave issued a statement last week that they have banned a fan for life after a racist incident at the San Diego vs. Los Angeles match. It’s disappointing that this stuff still happens, and San Diego is taking the necessary steps to ensure women’s soccer can be a safe place for everyone.
News of the Weekend
Big window ahead. 👊#USWNT x @BioSteelSports pic.twitter.com/DL4uPZVWmX
— U.S. Women's National Soccer Team (@USWNT) September 29, 2022
Although it came out slightly later than anticipated, the USWNT October roster was released last week. Alex Morgan and Taylor Kornieck will be missing due to injury, but USYNT player Alyssa Thompson is joining the squad for the first time. Jaelin Howell was also added after Kornieck was ruled out, and Crystal Dunn is back on the roster.
Goal of the Weekend
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Iowa tied 2-2 with Illinois last week. The biggest shining moment was Sarah Wheaton’s half-field goal.
Player of the Weekend
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San Diego secured their spot in the NWSL playoffs, partially thanks to a fantastic performance by Naomi Girma. With the absence of Alex Morgan, Abby Dahlkemper, and Taylor Kornieck, coach Casey Stoney handed the captain’s armband to Girma–a rookie in the NWSL. Girma’s defending was on point, leading to a shutout tie 0-0 against North Carolina.
Upset of the Weekend
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Although not truly an upset, No. 12 Gotham FC tied the Portland Thorns–No. 1 at the time–to block them from winning the NWSL Shield. The Reign beat Orlando to put them above the Thorns in points, giving them the award.
What to Look Forward To
USWNT
Friday, October 7: USWNT vs. England at 3:00 PM ET/12:00 PM PT
NCAA
Thursday, October 6: Florida St. (7) vs. Virginia (2) at 8:00 PM ET/5:00 PM PT
Thursday, October 6: Pittsburgh (14) vs. North Carolina (3) at 7:00 PM ET/4:00 PM PT
Thursday, October 6: Ole Miss (13) vs. Alabama (5) at 8:00 PM ET/5:00 PM PT
Saturday, October 8: Pepperdine (17) vs. Portland (18) at 10:00 PM ET/7:00 PM PT
Fav Social Media Post
I would follow Midge Purce into Mordor pic.twitter.com/fyMrRKDZOn
— Steph Yang | Horrible Soccer Goose (@thrace) October 3, 2022
Gotham played a major spoiler for the Thorns, leading to OL Reign taking home the NWSL shield. The Venmo receipts have been leaked to Gotham’s Midge Purce, requesting the Reign’s Alana Cook for her service.
Featured image via Getty Images
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