BOYDS, MD (May 20, 2024) – FC Kansas City faced off against the Washington Spirit this evening in hopes of extending their unbeaten streak. Their mission was accomplished as Alexa Newfield scored the only goal of the match and led the Blues to a 1-0 victory at the Maryland SoccerPlex, the team’s first win at that venue.

Still seeking their first road win of the season, head coach Vlatko Andonovski tweaked his game day strategy in an effort to spark his team’s chances of victory. Known for their patient play and strong defense, Kansas City came out of the gate with strong offensive pressure tonight.

The offensive emphasis was evident from the very beginning of the game. In the 13th minute, Brittany Ratcliffe forced her defender into a poor pass to goalkeeper Stephanie Labbé. A rushing Sydney Leroux nearly forced a turnover from Labbé, but the goalkeeper was just able to clear the ball from danger.

Even the defense got in on the offensive action. Becky Sauerbrunn found her way into the Washington side of the field many times throughout the game. In the 30th minute, the veteran center back got her head on a corner kick from Alexa Newfield that just missed the goal.

Newfield, getting the start for the second straight game and her fourth on the season, was active all over the field. In the 39th minute, she found herself wide open on the backside of the Spirit box. As the cross from Christina Gibbons came in, Leroux made an acrobatic bicycle kick attempt. Although she wasn’t able to get her attempt on net, she was able to deflect it wide where Newfield was waiting.

The second-year midfielder unleashed a shot that rocketed to the far side of the goal. The goal was the first in Newfield’s professional career and it ended a 135-minute goalless streak for the Blues.

In the second half, FC Kansas City kept up their pressure, even as the Spirit tried to equalize. Sauerbrunn and Yael Averbuch once again cleared away any chances Washington had inside the FCKC penalty box.

When the Spirit tried to flood the goal box with players and cross the ball in from distance, Nicole Barnhart was able to push through the crowd and corral any ball that came towards goal. In keeping a clean sheet, Barnhart adds to her NWSL record with her 35th shutout.

The win earns FC Kansas City three points and places them fourth in the NWSL table heading into tomorrow’s slate of matches. The team returns home next Saturday to Swope Soccer Village in an immediate rematch against the Washington Spirit. Kickoff on Saturday, May 20th is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CT and tickets can be purchased online here.

NWSL Match Report
Match: Washington Spirit vs FC Kansas City
Date: May 20, 2024
Venue: Maryland SoccerPlex
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
Attendance: 3,714
Weather: 64, cloudy

Discipline

48’ FCKC – Sauerbrunn (Yellow)

84’ WAS – Ordega (Yellow)

Scoring

FCKC: Newfield (Leroux) 39’

Scoring Summary

Goals                                        1          2          F

Washington Spirit (1-4-1)         0          0          0

FC Kansas City (2-2-2)             1          0          1

Lineups:
Washington Spirit: Labbé, Kleiner, Zadorsky ©, Church, Johnson, Mewis, Jensen, Howard (Solaun 80'), Ship (Pugh 55’), Ordega, Williams (Stengel 68’)

Substitutes Not Used: Kallman, Castleberry, Haracic

FC Kansas City: Barnhart, Gibbons, Averbuch, Sauerbrunn ©, Taylor, Moros, LaBonta, Ratcliffe (Scott 87’), Newfield (Flynn 82’), Groom (Bowen 73’), Leroux

Substitutes Not Used: Tymrak, Flynn, Kelly, Parkhill

Kansas City comes into this game after playing to a 0-0 draw last week against the Portland Thorns in one of the strongest defensive battles of the season. Kansas City’s goalkeeper Nicole Barnhart posted her second shutout of the season in the game, adding to her NWSL record. The entire Blues’ defense has only given up three goals all season.

The struggle for the team so far has been on the offensive side of the ball. Head coach Vlatko Andonovski is optimistic about the progress being made on that side of the ball.

“We’ve had slow starts before and ended up winning championships. I’m not concerned. In fact, the spirit and attitude of the team this week has been incredible,” said Andonovski. “It’s always tough when you lose a player of Amy’s (Rodriguez) caliber so early in the season, but Sydney has been getting better every week and I’m very happy with what she brings to the team.”

Indeed, Leroux has improved with each game. Although she’s been held scoreless since the opening game, she has contributed in other ways and become much more involved in the offensive build-up. Her confidence has improved with each game as well. She’s played the full 90 minutes in each of the past two games and now leads the team in total shots (13) and shots on target (5).

Washington is third in the league in scoring with seven goals. Four of those goals coming in their last home game, a 4-3 shootout with Sky Blue on May 7th. They hope to increase their offensive production with the addition of young U.S. Women’s National Team standout, Mallory Pugh.

The 19-year-old Pugh recently decided to turn pro and was introduced as a member of the Spirit this week. In 22 appearances with the senior national team, Pugh has already scored four goals. FCKC hopes to keep her in check in her expected debut.

The game is set to kick-off on Saturday, May 20th at 6:00 p.m. CT. Fans can watch the game on go90, available online as well as on the iOS and Android platforms. The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) also announced this week that the game will also be broadcast on the NWSL website (NWSLSoccer.com) and NWSL App.

Single-game tickets are available for FC Kansas City home matches and can be purchased here.

“Working with Shawn (Dumers) and the staff at Select Physical Therapy is an important part of our success as a team,” said General Manager Jean-Yves Viardin. “Injuries happen in soccer, but we are happy to know that our players are getting the attention and care they need throughout the season.”

As part of the agreement between the Blues and Select Physical Therapy, the team will refer its players to Select Physical Therapy for rehabilitative and preventive services. Select Physical Therapy, along with Head Athletic Trainer Shawn Dumers, will also provide athletic training services to the team at training sessions and games, both home and away.

For his part, Dumers is very enthusiastic about the partnership.

“I’ve been working with FC Kansas City since day one and I’m so excited to be doing it now under the Select Therapy umbrella. The resources and support they provide will be essential in making sure this team is prepared and ready to go each week.”

“Our clinical team has a terrific track record of treating athletes, from the weekend warrior to the professional.” said Kyle Farley, MA., ATC, LAT, Vice President for Select Physical Therapy in Missouri and Kansas. “We are proud to provide our rehabilitation expertise to some of the biggest names in sports, including FC Kansas City.”

FC Kansas City travels to Washington, D.C. this weekend to face the Washington Spirit. The teams will face off on Saturday at 3:00 p.m. CT, with the game being streamed live on go90.com and the go90 app (available on iOS and Android platforms). For this weekend games will also be streamed on nwslsoccer.com and the NWSL iOS app.                                 

Select Physical Therapy offers more than 20 convenient locations and physical rehabilitation services throughout the greater Kansas City area. For more information, please visit selectphysicaltherapy.com. 

Single-game tickets are available for FC Kansas City home matches and can be purchased here.

Select Physical Therapy is part of Select Medical’s Outpatient Division. Select Physical Therapy is a nationally prominent, locally driven provider of outpatient physical rehabilitation, including hand/occupational therapy, sports medicine, and work injury prevention and management.

KANSAS CITY (May 13, 2024) – Two of the best defenses battled to a draw under the early summer Kansas City heat, as neither FC Kansas City nor the Portland Thorns could score a goal. Kansas City remains undefeated at home with the tie.
 
So far this season, both FC Kansas City and the Portland Thorns have earned a tough defensive reputation. Each team had only given up three goals all season.
 
Kansas City opened the game attacking from their outside backs trying to find any opening in the Portland back line. Portland chose to attack straight up the middle with Lindsey Horan and Christine Sinclair. Neither side was able to break through for significant chances early with nearly half of the play being in the middle third of the field.
 
As the game wore on and the sun got hotter, the play on the field got more physical. Blues fans held their breath when Shea Groom collided with a couple players in the 43rd minute and went to the ground clutching at her side. She has been playing with a custom-fitted flak jacket since injuring her ribs in the second week of the season. The forward was able to return to the field shortly after that and showed no fear as she continued to attack the ball.
                                                
Both teams saw more chances in the second half, with FC Kansas City outshooting the Thorns 7-4 in the last 45 minutes. Kansas City’s best chance happened in the 65th minute when Erika Tymrak forced an errant pass from the Thorns defender and Sydney Leroux jumped on the ball in open space. Portland goalkeeper Adrianna Franch was able to get a foot on Leroux’s shot and deflected the one-on-one opportunity away from the goal.
 
The 0-0 result gives Kansas City 5 points on the season with a 1-2-2 record. The team will travel to Washington, D.C. next to take on the Washington Spirit. Game time on Saturday, May 12th is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. CT and the match will be streamed live on go90, available on the iOS and Android platforms.
 
NWSL Match Report
Match: FC Kansas City vs Portland Thorns
Date: May 13, 2024
Venue: Swope Soccer Village
Kickoff: 3:00 p.m. CT
Attendance: 1,796
Weather: 81, sunny
 
Discipline
FCKC: 74’ Moros (Yellow Card)

Scoring Summary                    

Goals                                     1          2          F

FC Kansas City (1-2-2)          0          0          0

Portland Thorns (2-1-2)          0          0          0

Lineups:
FC Kansas City: Barnhart, Gibbons, Averbuch, Sauerbrunn ©, Taylor, Moros, LaBonta, Ratcliffe (Tymrak 63’), Newfield (Bowen 72’), Groom (Kelly 82’), Leroux

Substitutes Not Used: Flynn, Reed, Parkhill, Scott

Portland Thorns: Franch, Klingenberg, Menges, Sonnett, Boureille, Long (Cox 90’ +3), Horan, Henry, Nadim (Weber 63’), Sinclair, Raso

Substitutes Not Used: Johnson, Eckerstrom

FC Kansas City's next home match is May 27th at 7pm and tickets can be purchased here.

The Blues reversed a two-game losing skid last week with a 1-1 draw against the Orlando Pride. The Thorns also played to a draw, with Allie Long scoring on a header in the 82nd minute to salvage a 2-2 tie with the Seattle Reign.

Kansas City and Portland represent two of the stingiest defenses in the NWSL this season, with each side only allowing 3 goals so far. The Blues can thank their veteran defensive core of Nicole Barnhart, Becky Sauerbrunn and Yael Averbuch for their defensive excellence. With the addition of Brittany Taylor and rookie Christina Gibbons on the outside, opposing teams have not had a lot of success penetrating that back line.

Forward Sydney Leroux played the full 90 minutes last weekend for FC Kansas City. The full match is yet another step in the star forward’s return to the elite level of women’s soccer. Although she hasn’t scored since the opening match of the season, Leroux has continued to improve with each match and provide opportunities to the players around her.

The match is scheduled to kickoff at 3:00 p.m. CT and can be viewed live on go90, the new streaming home of the NWSL. go90 is available on iOS and Android platforms as well as online at go90.com.                                                                       

Tickets are still available for Saturday’s match vs the Portland Thorns and can be purchased online here. 

The June 3 NWSL Game of the Week pregame show will start at 2:30 p.m. CT with host Dalen Cuff and analyst Aly Wagner, leading up to kickoff at 2:50 p.m. CT as Jenn Hildreth and Wagner will call the game followed by an extended postgame from the final whistle until 5 p.m. CT.

The match will be the first encounter between the Courage and FC Kansas City and is set to feature 2024 NWSL MVP Lynn Williams and fellow forward Jessica McDonald, the all-time leading scorer in NWSL history, for North Carolina as well as three-time NWSL Defender of the Year Becky Sauerbrunn and goalkeeper Nicole Barnhart, the league’s all-time shutout leader, for the Blues.

The NWSL Game of the Week on Lifetime is available each and every week live and on-demand streaming via the Lifetime iOS and Android apps and online at MyLifetime.com. In addition, international fans outside of the United States can watch live and on-demand streaming of the Game of the Week on the NWSL app and NWSLsoccer.com.

Single game tickets for FC Kansas City's home game are on sale and can be purchased here.

KANSAS CITY (May 7, 2024) – FC Kansas City secured another point in the standings this evening as they tied the Orlando Pride 1-1 in front of 2,514 fans at Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City. Erika Tymrak scored the equalizer in the 84th minute for Kansas City as they remain unbeaten at home on the season.

FC Kansas City vs Orlando Pride Stats Download
 
On a warm Sunday afternoon at home, FC Kansas City hoped to turn back from their recent losing streak against the winless Orlando Pride. With the return of Shea Groom from injury, the team hoped to regain their scoring prowess that saw them score two goals in a season opening win against Boston.
 
Early on, head coach Vlatko Andonovski wanted his team to attack and put pressure on the Pride’s defense. Orlando weathered the opening minutes and even looked like they may be able to produce counter strikes against the FCKC defense.
 
Unfortunately for Orlando, in the 4th minute they lost midfielder Monica to an apparent knee injury. She collided with several players in the middle of the field and had to be helped off the field. Danielle Weatherholt was inserted into the lineup in her place.
 
The first half saw FC Kansas City with several opportunities to take the lead. Lo’eau LaBonta had two shots go wide right and one that a sprawling Ashlyn Harris was just able to keep out of the net. Brittany Ratcliffe, getting her second straight start, and Groom also missed just wide in the half.
 
In the second half, Orlando forward Marta began to take control of her team’s offense. She was all over the field, looking for any opportunity to get in past the Kansas City back line.
 
Becky Sauerbrunn and the rest of the defense were able to hold the Brazilian forward to shots from outside of the box for most of the game. In the 73rd minute however, Pride defender Ali Krieger crossed the ball into Jasmyne Spencer. Spencer took two steps before laying it off to Marta who slotted her shot past a diving Nicole Barnhart.
 
Andonovski adjusted his lineup to make sure he had fresh legs to put pressure on Orlando’s defense in the final minutes of the game. Erika Tymrak, who came on the field late for Katie Bowen, was one of several players who flooded the Orlando goal box in the 84th minute after a Yael Averbuch free kick. As the ball bounced around, Maegan Kelly was able to steer the ball towards Tymrak who put it in the open net.
 
With a final score of 1-1, FC Kansas City (1-2-1) now sits at four points on the NWSL table. Orlando (0-2-2), now has two points.
 
Kansas City remains home next weekend when they face the Portland Thorns at 3:00 p.m. CT at Swope Soccer Village. Tickets are available to purchase here.
 
NWSL Match Report
Match: FC Kansas City vs Orlando Pride
Date: May 7, 2024
Venue: Swope Soccer Village
Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. ET
Attendance: 2,514
Weather: Low 80s, Sunny

Misconduct Summary
FCKC – 46’ Sydney Leroux – Reckless Tackle
ORL – 18’ Maddy Evans – Reckless Tackle

Scoring Summary

Goals                                    1          2          F

FC Kansas City (1-2-1)         0          1          1

Orlando Pride (0-2-2)          0          1          1

ORL – 73’ Marta (Spencer)
FCKC – 84’ Tymrak (Kelly)

Lineups:
FC Kansas City: Barnhart, Gibbons, Averbuch, Sauerbrunn ©, Taylor, Scott, LaBonta, Ratcliffe (Newfield 71’), Groom (Kelly 83’), Bowen (Tymrak 64’), Leroux

Substitutes Not Used: Parkhill, Reed, Moros, Flynn

Orlando Pride: Harris, Pressley, Kennedy, Catley, Krieger, Monica (Weatherholt 4’), Camila, M. Evans (Fields 82’), Edmonds, D Evans (Spencer 64’), Marta

Substitutes Not Used: Bledsoe, Ubogagu, Alleway, Driesse

Kansas City lost each of their last two games by a score of 1-0. After opening the season with a 2-0 win at home, the team will be looking to get back on the winning track when it returns home this week.

FCKC opened their season with plenty of excitement for their offensive attack with the return of Amy Rodriguez and Sydney Leroux to join Shea Groom. Unfortunately, Leroux was the only one of those players able to suit up against Sky Blue last weekend due to injury. 

Groom is expected to return to the lineup this weekend and should be a big boost to the Kansas City attack. Together with Leroux, head coach Vlatko Andonovski believes his team can improve on their two-goal performance in the season’s opener.

Another reason for Andonovski’s optimism is his midfield. The international duo of New Zealand’s Katie Bowen and Canada’s Desiree Scott, combined with an impressive start to the season from Lo’eau LaBonta and Brittany Ratcliffe, are beginning to gel.

Orlando comes to Kansas City after losing to North Carolina last weekend. This is their second straight road game, and their third in four games so far this season. The team is without star forward Alex Morgan, who is currently finishing out her season for Olympique Lyonnais. However, they are not lacking for star power. Women’s soccer legend Marta joined the Pride just prior to the second week of the season and is expected to make her second straight start for the Pride.

FC Kansas City will be celebrating diversity as they host the first ever Out at Swope Night in conjunction with the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). Beginning with a pre-game tailgate party hosted by the HRC, FCKC encourage fans to Be Blue. Be True. Be You.                             

Tickets are available for still available for Sunday night’s match vs the Orlando Pride. Purchase tickets here or call 913.335.6146. The game will also be streamed live on the go90 app or at go90.com.

KANSAS CITY (May 4, 2024) – The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and NWSL Media Association announced the inaugural Team of the Month for April this afternoon. Highlighting the back line was FC Kansas City defender Becky Sauerbrunn.

Sauerbrunn has been a defensive mainstay for the Blues since the team began play in 2024. Her quick decision-making and ability to break down opposing attacks have helped her anchor a defense that has only allowed two goals so far this season.

The full Team of the Month is:

GK – Stephanie Labbé, Washington Spirit: Labbé made 17 saves over three appearances – including eight in a 1-0 loss to the North Carolina Courage on April 15.

D – Estelle Johnson, Washington Spirit: Johnson played all 270 minutes for the Spirit in April as she racked up 188 touches and 8 tackles won, good for second in the league, over three appearances.

D – Becky Sauerbrunn, FC Kansas City: Sauerbrunn made five tackles while recording 70 or more touches in a match in two of her three appearances during the month.

D – Emily Sonnett, Portland Thorns: Sonnett made a league-leading five blocks while she helped the Thorns earn two shutouts in three matches during April. She also aided in extending Portland’s home winning streak to a league-record six games.

M – Julie Ertz, Chicago Red Stars: Ertz had a goal in 270 minutes while playing in three different positions – center back, center midfield and the top of a midfield diamond.

M – Debinha, North Carolina Courage: Debinha scored a goal and added an assist while generating seven shots on goal – tied for second in the league – during three games in April.

M – Rose Lavelle, Boston Breakers: Lavelle recorded a goal and an assist in 262 minutes over three appearances as she helped the Breakers win multiple games in April for the first time in club history.

M – Jess Fishlock, Seattle Reign: Fishlock had a goal and an assist while playing 270 minutes during the month for the Reign.

M – Samantha Mewis, North Carolina Courage: Mewis had a goal in 270 minutes while making three appearances for the Courage in April.

F – Kealia Ohai, Houston Dash: Ohai scored two goals and added an assist to lead the Dash to a 2-1-0 record in April. She was directly involved in both goals of Houston’s 2-0 win over the Chicago Red Stars on April 15.

F – Lynn Williams, North Carolina Courage: Williams had a goal and racked up a league-high nine shots on goal in 270 minutes over three appearances while helping the Courage to a 3-0-0 record in April.

Sauerbrunn and her FC Kansas City teammates return home on Sunday, May 7th at 5:00 p.m. CT to face the Orlando Pride. Tickets for the game at Swope Soccer Village are available for purchase here.

The NWSL Team of the Month is selected each month of the regular season by the NWSL Media Association, a collection of writers that cover the league on a consistent basis. For more information on the NWSL Media Association, follow them on Twitter.

Piscataway, NJ (April 30, 2024) – FC Kansas City was unable to find their first win away from home this afternoon as they dropped a 1-0 decision to Sky Blue FC in New Jersey. Last season’s NWSL Rookie of the Year Raquel Rodriguez scored the only goal of the game for the home side as Kansas City falls to 1-2-0 on the season.

SKY BLUE FC vs FC KANSAS CITY FULL STATS
 
On a very breezy day in New Jersey, FC Kansas City opened the game going against the wind. Relying on their stout defense, the team hoped to capitalize on any mistakes they could force from their opponents.
 
Very early in the game, they nearly were able to accomplish their goal when Sydney Leroux received a ball at the top of the box, very similar to her score in the season’s opening match. Unfortunately, this time she was not able to put much on the shot and Sky Blue’s Kailen Sheridan was able to jump on it for the save.
 
Kansas City used their wait and attack approach to provide the better opportunities of the first half. Brittany Ratcliffe, in her first start with FCKC, was able to sneak behind the Sky Blue back line for a 1 v 1 chance with the goalkeeper. Sheridan was able to get in front of Ratcliffe’s shot to keep the score even.
 
As the teams switched sides at the halftime break, FC Kansas City tried to use the wind to their advantage. Midfielders Ratcliffe and Maegan Kelly continuously pressured Sky Blue’s right side and helped KC to outshoot their opponents 6-4 in the second half.
 
In the 83rd minute, goalkeeper Nicole Barnhart seemingly saved a ball from going out of bounds, but the Assistant Referee declared the ball out of bounds and awarded Sky Blue their only corner kick of the second half. As the ball was crossed into the box it bounced out to where Mandy Freeman was waiting. Freeman put the ball back into the mess of players inside the goal box where Rodriguez was able to direct it into the net.
 
FC Kansas City thought they scored the equalizing goal moments later. Rookie Christina Gibbons calmly crossed the ball towards the Sky Blue goal where Ratcliffe was just able to get under it and head it into the goal. Although many on the Kansas City side thought she was even with the defense at the time the ball was kicked, Ratcliffe was called offside and the goal was not allowed.
 
Kansas City (1-2-0) returns to Swope Socer Village next week to take on the Orlando Pride (0-2-1) at 5:00 p.m. CT. Tickets are available for purchases here.
 
NWSL Match Report
Match: Sky Blue FC vs FC Kansas City
Date: April 30, 2024
Venue: Yurcak Field
Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. ET
Attendance: 2,562
Weather: Mid-50s, windy

Misconduct Summary
SBFC – 73’ Raquel Rodríguez – Foul
SBFC – 90’+ Madison Tiernan - Foul
 

Scoring Summary

Goals                                  1           2           F

Sky Blue (0-1-1)                  0           1           1

FC Kansas City (1-1-0)       0           0           0

SBFC – 83’ Rodriguez (Freeman)

Lineups:
Sky Blue FC: Sheridan, Simon, Skroski, Freeman, Mills, Killion, Hayes (Tiernan 70’), Rodriguez, Lytle (Galton 66’), Corboz, O’Hara©

Substitutes Not Used: Meehan, Stanton, Casey, DeCesare, Richardson
 
FC Kansas City: Barnhart, Gibbons, Averbuch, Sauerbrunn ©, Taylor, Scott, LaBonta, Ratcliffe (Tymrak 89’), Kelly (Newfield 81’), Bowen (Flynn 64’), Leroux

Substitutes Not Used: Parkhill, Reed, Moros

This is the first match between these two squads in 2024. Last season, FCKC faced off against Sky Blue twice, with a win at home and a 1-1 draw on the road. Sky Blue heads into this match fresh off a road loss to the Boston Breakers last Sunday. They secured an opening day draw against the Seattle Reign.

For FC Kansas City, they head into this game with the hope they will be able to rebound from a tough loss to Chicago last weekend. The team is without two of their three opening day forwards as Shea Groom suffered a broken rib in last week’s game.

Coach Andonovski has reason to be excited about their chances this weekend, however. Forward Sydney Leroux is still coming into form and their already stout defense will see the return of defensive midfielder Desiree Scott.

Despite the loss of Groom and Amy Rodriguez, Kansas City is excited about the growth of young players Katie Bowen and Brittany Ratcliffe, both of whom should be very involved in the attack this weekend.

The team has only conceded one goal so far this season as Becky Sauerbrunn, Yael Averbuch and Brittany Taylor, along with rookie Christina Gibbons, continue to be one of the best back lines in the NWSL. Sky Blue has yet to score from the run of play and KC looks to keep that line intact.

Fans are encouraged to watch this weekend’s game on the go90 app (available on iOS and Android platforms) or on go90.com. 

FC Kansas City single game tickets are currently on sale here.

CHICAGO (April 22, 2024) – FC Kansas City fell to the Chicago Red Stars 1-0 in their first road trip of the 2024 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season. Julie Ertz scored for the home side in front of the 2,153 fans that made it out to the team’s home opener.

Last week, FC Kansas City played a strong defensive game that allowed them the most fast-break opportunities in the NWSL. The Red Stars seemed prepared for that however, as they were much more reserved in their attack. FC Kansas City controlled the possession, but Chicago’s defense corralled the Blues in their own end of the field much of the day.
 
Chicago took advantage of any opportunity they had with the ball and peppered the Kansas City defense with shots. In the first half, they outshot FCKC 11-3.
 
In the 41st minute, Sofia Huerta beat Christina Gibbons to the outside and crossed a pass from nearly the touchline into a waiting Ertz. Running onto the ball, Ertz placed her shot to the back of the net for what would eventually be the game-winning goal.
 
Chicago nearly had a chance to double their lead in the second half when they were awarded a Penalty Kick early in the period. Forward Christen Press pushed her shot wide of the goal and kept the Blues within a score.
 
FC Kansas City fought back in the second half as they adjusted their play to a more attacking style. Shea Groom was very active, collecting the ball from her defense and distributing to Leroux and the outside midfielders.
 
Kansas City outshot the Red Stars 8-6 in the second half, but none of them were able to find their way into the goal. The result is Kansas City’s first loss and Chicago’s first win of the season.
 
FC Kansas City will remain on the road for another week as they head to New Jersey on April 30th for a 5:00 p.m. CT scheduled kickoff against Sky Blue FC. The game will be streamed live on go90.com and the go90 app available on iOS and Android platforms.

NWSL Match Report
Match: Chicago Red Stars vs FC Kansas City
Date: April 22, 2024
Venue: Toyota Park
Kickoff: 3:00 p.m. CT
Attendance: 2,153
Weather: Partly Cloudy

Scoring Summary

Goals                                 1              2              F

FC Kansas City (1-1-0)      0              0              0

Chicago (1-1-0)                 1              0              1

CHI – Julie Ertz (Sophia Huerta) 41’

FC Kansas City Lineup: 18-Nicole Barnhart; 31-Christina Gibbons, 4-Becky Sauerbrunn (capt.), 10-Yael Averbuch, 13-Brittany Taylor; 3-Rebecca Moros (21-Caroline Flynn, 58'), 88-Alexa Newfield (15-Erika Tymrak, 58'), 6-Katie Bowen, 9-Lo’eau LaBonta; 14-Sydney Leroux (44-Maegan Kelly, 73'), 2-Shea Groom
Substitutes not used: 19-Catherine Parkhill, 22-Brianne Reed, 25-Brittany Ratcliffe

Chicago Red Stars Lineup: 1-Alyssa Naeher; 16-Samantha Johnson, 5-Katie Naughton, 3-Arin Gilliland, 6-Casey Short; 24-Danielle Colaprico, 10-Vanessa DiBernardo, 11-Sofia Huerta (4-Alyssa Mautz, 87'), 8-Julie Ertz (13-Morgan Proffitt, 87'), 2-Jen Hoy (9-Stephanie McCaffrey, 72'), 23-Christen Press (capt.)
Substitutes not used: 7-Taylor Comeau, 14-Sarah Gorden, 18-Michele Dalton, 19-Summer Green, 30-Lauren Kaskie, 34-Mary Luba

FC Kansas City opened their fifth campaign with a 2-0 victory over the Boston Breakers last weekend. FC Kansas City welcomed back U.S. Women’s National team stars Sydney Leroux and Amy Rodriguez as each found the back of the net. The celebration was short-lived however as Rodriguez suffered a season-ending torn ACL about ten minutes after her score.

Replacing the world-class superstar will be a tough task for head coach Vlatko Andonovski, but he’s confident in the abilities of his team. Forward Shea Groom spent the offseason working with Leroux and Andonovski is confident in the pair’s ability to provide the team with some offensive firepower.

Additionally, FCKC’s young midfield has grown considerably since last year’s difficult season. Lo’eau LaBonta and Alexa Newfield, along with Katie Bowen have developed a midfield relationship that can stifle opposing offenses and develop fast breaking attacks for their offense.

Chicago returns home for the first time this season after dropping their first match of the season against the Houston Dash. Kealia Ohai opened the scoring for Houston and the Red Stars could not recover.

U.S. Women’s National Team regular Christen Press leads the attack for the Red Stars while her U.S. teammate Alyssa Naeher backstops the Chicago defense.

Last season the Blues played Chicago four times, earning a win and two draws while dropping one decision.

On May 7th, FC Kansas City will host the first ever Out at Swope Night in conjunction with the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). The Blues encourage all of their fans to Be Blue, Be True, Be You beginning with a pre-game Tailgate Party.

For $25, fans can purchase a special package that includes HRC membership, a ticket to see the Blues play the Orlando Pride and admission to the Tailgate Party, hosted by DJ Shelby White. These packages are available for purchase on the HRC website here.

FC Kansas City is partnering with the Kansas City Anti-Violence Project for the 50/50 raffle during the game. Kansas City Anti-Violence Project or KCAVP, is a 501c3 nonprofit organization working to end violence in the lives lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer youth and adults across the states of Missouri and Kansas. KCAVP provides direct services including a 24 hour hotline, walk up services, free therapy and emergency assistance, a food pantry and clothing closet and a new Q-mmunity Safe Space for LGBTQ people who have experienced trauma, violence, harassment or neglect. You can sign up to volunteer with KCAVP here.

Come out and celebrate diversity, inclusion, and love with FCKC and the HRC. Individual tickets for the game can be purchased here.

Head coach Vlatko Andonovski said, “I’m extremely sorry for what happened to Amy. She worked so hard to come back from pregnancy and looked better than ever before. It is unfortunate that she is not going to be able to play this season. We’ll miss her on the field, in the locker room, and in training. Her enthusiasm is contagious.”

Rodriguez missed all of last season with the birth of her son. In her first game back on Sunday, Rodriguez scored a goal and showed why she is the franchise’s all-time leading scorer (including playoffs). Joining the team in 2024, Rodriguez was an important part of the Blues’ back-to-back championship run in 2024 and 2024. Her score on Sunday clinched the teams’ first opening day win in franchise history.

“I’m heartbroken by this news, but I am thankful for all the support from my team, medical staff, family, friends and fans,” said Rodriguez.

Photo courtesy of Amy Kontras/isiphotos.com

KANSAS CITY (April 16, 2024) – FC Kansas City opened their 2024 campaign with a 2-0 win over the Boston Breakers Sunday evening at Swope Soccer Village in front of 3,340 fans. Sydney Leroux and Amy Rodriguez notched the goals for the night in their first appearances since the 2024 NWSL season.

“That’s what we’re going to look like. I’m not going to lower the standards by any means. They’ll just keep getting better and better,” said head coach Vlatko Andonovski on his team’s first outing.
 
The first half gave fans a taste of the star-studded front line of FC Kansas City. National team stars Leroux and Rodriguez team up with KC native Shea Groom to disrupt Boston’s defense. Rodriguez, or A-Rod, had the first chance when she started attacking the goal but a defender interrupted her path.
 
In her FC Kansas City debut and her first NWSL game since 2024 with the Western New York Flash, Leroux scored the first goal of the season. In the 7th minute, Becky Sauerbrunn sent a rocket of a pass up into the final third. Leroux was patient and remained onside then fired off a shot on her first touch of the game and found the side of the net, the Blues went up 1-0.
 
Minutes later, Groom passed a ball up to A-Rod who broke away from the defenders. Taking the Boston goalkeeper 1v1, she took a shot that landed right in the keeper’s hands. The Blues tallied five shots on target in the first 45 minutes.
 
Boston created a few chances and challenged one of the most notorious backlines in the NWSL. In the 28th minute, Boston took a shot that had Nicole Barnhart diving. She pushed it away from the goal and out of bounds. New national tram standout, Rose Lavelle carried the ball from outside the box and took a shot but Barnhart easily caught it.
 
After the break, both teams came back as hungry as the first half. In the 48th minute, A-Rod carried the ball down the left flank towards the goal. She ran into some pressure so she sent it across the field to Groom. A-Rod then found some space, called for the ball back, took a shot and doubled the lead.
 
In the 55th minute, A-Rod went down with a left knee injury. She was taken out of the game and did not return for the rest of the match.
 
“She left the game, we don’t know what it is we’re just hoping it’s not as bad as the first impression was,” said Andonovski.
 
Boston had the closest chance in 79th minute when there were more Boston than Kansas City bodies in front of the box. What seemed like a frenzy of back and forth was finally resolved by Barnhart who nabbed the ball and protected it, keeping the score at 2-0.
 
The scoreline stayed at 2-0 until the final whistle. The Blues ended with seven shots, five being on target. The Breakers had 14 shots with five also on target. Both teams were aggressive near the goal with Kansas City having 5 shots from inside the box and Boston having 6 from inside.
 
The Blues hit the road for the next two games. The first against the Chicago Red Stars on April 22 and the next at Sky Blue FC on April 30. The next home game will be Sunday, May 7 against the Orlando Pride at 5:00 PM CT at Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City, MO. Tickets are available at fckansascity.com.

NWSL Match Report
Match: FC Kansas City vs Boston Breakers
Date: April 16, 2024
Venue: Swope Soccer Village
Kickoff: 5:00 p.m. CT
Attendance: 3,340
Weather: Cloudy

Scoring Summary

Goals                                  1           2              F

FC Kansas City (1-0-0)       1           1              2

Boston (0-1-0)                     0           0              0

FCKC – Sydney Leroux (Becky Sauerbrunn) 7’
FCKC – Amy Rodriguez (Shea Groom) 48’

Lineups:
FC Kansas City: Nicole Barnhart; Christina Gibbons, Becky Sauerbrunn Ⓒ, Yael Averbuch, Brittany Taylor; Lo’aeu LaBonta, Katie Bowen, Alexa Newfield (Becca Moros 73’); Sydney Leroux (Maegan Kelly 78’), Amy Rodriguez (Brittany Ratcliffe 58’), Shea Groom

Substitutes Not Used: Cat Parkhill, Erika Tymrak, Caroline Flynn, Brianne Reed

Boston Breakers: Abby Smith; Margaret Purce, Megan Oyster, Christen Westphal, Allysha Chapman; Angela Salem, Amanda DaCosta (Ifeoma Onumonu 63’), Rosie White (Morgan Andrews 81’), Rose Lavelle, Adriana Leon (Tiffany Weimer 71'); Natasha Dowie

Substitutes Not Used: Sammy Prudhomme, Brooke Elby, Julie King, Kylie Strom

Tickets for the game can be purchased here.

Brittany Ratcliffe comes to Kansas City after spending last season with the Breakers. She was a 2024 second round draft pick for Boston and made 15 appearances and 5 starts in 2024. Prior to that, she was a standout player for the University of Virginia. She appeared in 93 matches through her Cavalier career.

Caroline Flynn was the 40th pick in the 2024 NWSL College Draft. She joined FC Kansas City’s camp on trial shortly before they played an exhibition match against her alma mater, the University of Nebraska, on April 1st. She started all 78 games of her collegiate career, scoring 11 goals and 7 assists along the way. Among the honors she earned in Lincoln were All-Big Ten Second Team, NSCAA Scholar All-North/Central Region, Academic All-Big Ten.

Maegan Kelly was drafted by FC Kansas City with the 35th overall selection in the 2024 NWSL College Draft. Kelly got the opportunity to play for UMF Stjarnan in Iceland later that year where she played in eight games and scored four goals. The following season she played for Åland United in Finland where she started in 19 of her 20 games with the team.

“I’m very happy with this roster, especially after adding these three players to the team,” said head coach Vlatko Andonovski. “All three have NWSL talent and will be valuable additions to our team.”

FC Kansas City opens their fifth NWSL season on Sunday, April 16th at 5:00 p.m. CT against the Boston Breakers. Tickets can be purchased here.

A fully ad-supported, mobile streaming service, go90 will feature 98 NWSL games accessible via live and on-demand streaming for the 2024 season. To access, visit go90.com or simply download the go90 app via the App Store or Google Play. Users with go90 version 3.0 and later can cast live games from the go90 app to Airplay and Chromecast. No registration or authentication is required. Check out the full schedule here: http://nwsl.us/2orAtSh

“We are thrilled to announce our new partnership with go90, and are now positioned to deliver more content than ever before,” NWSL Managing Director of Operations Amanda Duffy said. “With go90’s digital capabilities combined with an enhanced digital broadcast production, we are excited to provide our fans with an entirely new digital experience and eager to introduce NWSL to go90’s rapidly growing soccer audience.”

go90 currently streams more than 1,000 live soccer matches from all over the world each year and is committed to removing barriers to entry for U.S. soccer fans through fully ad-supported live and on-demand experiences. This agreement strengthens and continues to position go90’s live sports offering as one of the largest available on mobile.

“We are pleased to team up with NWSL and bring 98 live women’s soccer matches to fans in the U.S. on go90 and across our owned and operated AOL and, soon enough, Yahoo properties.  This complements our existing commitment to soccer on go90,” said Chip Canter, GM of Verizon Digital Entertainment. “The women of the NWSL are inspiring the next generation of young soccer stars, both young men and women, and we believe that this partnership will serve as a much-needed catalyst for the growth of the sport as a whole here in the U.S.”

Every game on go90 will be produced by Vista WorldLink in high definition with a consistent, state-of-the-art approach, and feature a halftime show as well as brief pre and postgame shows. In addition to the NWSL Game of the Week on Lifetime, Michael Cohen, a veteran broadcaster of nine Olympic Games and three FIFA World Cups, will serve as the league’s executive producer for all digital broadcasts on go90.

The go90 schedule kicks off with four games on opening weekend April 15-16, featuring an exciting rematch of the 2024 NWSL Championship Game with the Washington Spirit hosting the North Carolina Courage at the Maryland SoccerPlex.

International fans around the world will be able to watch all 98 games live and on-demand on NWSLSoccer.com and via the NWSL iOS app. As a result, NWSL fans in the United States and around the world will be able to watch every game in multiple, free platforms:

U.S. and Territories      Outside U.S.

NWSL Game of the Week              Lifetime                NWSLsoccer.com

                                                 mylifetime.com            NWSL app (iOS)

                                   Lifetime iOS and Android App

All other games                                go90                   NWSLsoccer.com

(98 Games)                                                                     NWSL app (iOS)

About go90

go90 is a free, mobile-first, social entertainment platform that makes it easy to discover, view and share content from the most beloved networks, distributors, creators, audiences and brands in digital entertainment. Available on the web, iOS and Android, go90 brings together and delivers premier entertainment experiences across every screen. go90 is part of the Verizon Communications family of companies. Start watching now on go90.com.

Gibbons was FC Kansas City’s first pick of the 2024 NWSL College Draft and the fifth selection overall. She played collegiately at Duke University. While with the Blue Devils, Gibbons started 87 of her 88 matches with the Blue Devils and earned First Team All-ACC honors three times. Her 7,794 minutes of play are the second most in school history for a field player.

Since the 2024 preseason started Gibbons has made an immediate impact for her new team. She started in each of the three preseason games, earning valuable experience on Kansas City’s backline.

Head coach Vlatko Andonovski said, “Gibby has been a great player so far for us. She is so smart and plays like a veteran already.”

“I really like everyone and they’ve all been so welcoming so I’m really glad to be here,” said Gibbons. “I’m just excited! I’m just excited to get out there and play some good games and hopefully do some really great things for Kansas City this year.”

Gibbons and FC Kansas City begin the 2024 regular season on Sunday, April 16th against the Boston Breakers at Swope Soccer Village. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. CT and tickets are available here.