Sunday's Racing Louisville vs Angel City FC NWSL matchup had everything: a rookie brace, a late rally, and a near-equalizer off the woodwork. But, the home team failed to score the win this time.
Maja Lardner Brace Powers Racing Louisville to Early Lead
Maja Lardner scored both Louisville goals in a 2-1 road victory at BMO Stadium, netting the first brace of her NWSL career. Lardner opened the scoring in the 24th minute. She attacked a rebound after goalkeeper Angelina Anderson saved a long-range effort.
Then in the 55th minute, she headed home a cross from Kayla Fischer to double the lead.
Angel City FC answered in the 80th minute through Sveindís Jónsdóttir. She collected a long pass from Sophia Mattice, beat her defender, and slotted the ball under the keeper. The assist was the first of Mattice's career.
From there, the pressure mounted. Gisele Thompson launched a shot that rippled the side netting in the 85th minute. Riley Tiernan struck the woodwork moments later. Still, Louisville's defense held firm through stoppage time.
NWSL Scores & Standings After Angel City Upset
Angel City finished with 67% of possession and outshot Louisville in the first half, but they couldn't find a way to capitalize.
This latest loss drops them to ninth in the NWSL standings, one point outside the playoff line. Louisville, meanwhile, picked up just their second win from the bottom of the table.
