Rodman Shines with Late Goal in Spirit’s 2-1 Victory Over Thorns
Trinity Rodman made a triumphant return from injury by scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time, leading the Washington Spirit to a 2-1 victory over the Portland Thorns in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) on July 30, 2023. This match marked Rodman’s first appearance since April 12, following a prolonged recovery from a back injury.
Entering the game to a roaring crowd at Audi Field in the 76th minute, Rodman quickly made her presence felt. After netting the winning goal, she was visibly emotional, burying her head in her hands as tears flowed. “That was the hardest thing I’ve had to go through, with the injury and everything. So being back, especially at the home stadium with the crowd behind me, scoring a goal like that, you saw I buried it, was not going to miss it,” Rodman expressed post-match. She added, “I’m just really happy to be back. I missed the team, I missed doing what I love, so just joy.”
The Spirit’s victory improved their record to 8 wins, 4 draws, and 2 losses, propelling them into second place in the league standings as they returned from the NWSL’s six-week summer break. Meanwhile, the Thorns, who had secured victories in their last two matches before the break, fell to a record of 6 wins, 4 draws, and 4 losses.
Rodman’s return invigorated the Spirit, who started the match strongly. Gift Monday opened the scoring in the 17th minute, converting a well-placed cross from Rosemonde Kouassi and easily beating Thorns goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold. This goal marked Monday’s fifth of the season.
Despite the Spirit’s early dominance, the Thorns equalized just before halftime. Olivia Moultrie struck a powerful shot from the top of the box during first-half stoppage time, leveling the score at 1-1.
Adrián González, who was appointed as the Spirit’s permanent head coach during the summer break, previously served as the team’s interim head coach last year. His leadership is expected to enhance the team’s performance as the season progresses. Under his guidance, goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury made history by surpassing former player Tori Huster for the most minutes played with the club during the match.
The Spirit’s next challenge will be against the Orlando Pride, who hosted the Utah Royals in a late Sunday match. With Rodman’s return and the team’s recent performance, the Spirit are looking to maintain their momentum as they aim for a strong finish to the season.
