The Washington Spirit climbed to the top of the NWSL standings on Sunday, downing Boston Legacy FC 2-1 on the road at Centreville Bank Stadium. It was the club's ninth win in 15 matches this season, prevailing despite a late effort from Boston's Sammy Smith.
Spirit defender Tara Rudd broke the deadlock in the 25th minute. Leicy Santos whipped a ball into the penalty area, and Rudd rose to nod it over Boston Legacy goalkeeper Casey Murphy.
Then, just six minutes later, Trinity Rodman made it 2-0. Gift Monday played Rodman in behind the back line, and the forward finished calmly for her seventh tally of 2026.
Sammy Smith Scores Late Goal for Boston Legacy FC
Still, Boston's NWSL expansion side wasn't done. The hosts pushed forward after halftime, and Spirit goalkeeper Sandy MacIver had to come up big on multiple occasions.
Sammy Smith finally pulled one back in the 88th minute. Smith collected a pass from Emerson Elgin on the left side of the box and slotted a sharp finish into the far corner. But Washington held firm through stoppage time to seal the result.
What’s Next on the Washington Spirit Schedule
With the win, the Spirit sit atop the standings at 30 points, level with Gotham FC but ahead on goal difference. Next on the Washington Spirit schedule: a home match against Denver Summit FC at Audi Field on Sunday at 7 PM ET (Victory+).
Meanwhile, Boston Legacy will face the KC Current at home on Saturday at 5 PM ET, live on ION.
