FC Kansas City Jump into First Place

The undefeated streak continues to grow for FC Kansas City, and is now at eight games.  5,024 fans were on-hand to see the win featuring goals from Courtney Jones and Merritt Mathias, plus an own goal off the foot of Boston Breakers defender Kia McNeill.  The win gives the Blues 32 points on the season, one point more than Sky Blue FC, and first position in the National Women’s Soccer League table.

With a lineup unchanged from last week’s victory over the Seattle Reign, FC Kansas City was eager to separate themselves from the rest of the playoff pack.  Coach Vlatko Andonovski’s team pressured the Boston Breakers defense from the beginning of the match.  Defenders Leigh Ann Robinson and Kristie Mewis continuously drove the ball up the sidelines, crossing the ball in towards goal.  Although, Kansas City held much of the possession, Boston did have its chances in the first half.  Sydney Leroux and Lianne Sanderson were each able to get a shot off, although neither one was on goal. 

The stalemate was finally broken in the 72^nd minute when Merritt Mathias ran onto a pass from NWSL Player of the Week, Erika Tymrak.  Mathias then sent a low pass across the box where Boston’s Kia McNeill, in an attempt to block the shot, actually tapped it inside the near post.  FC Kansas City held the 1-0 lead, but was not satisfied.  As Boston tried to increase their pressure and net an equalizer, Kansas City jumped on their mistakes and poured on the counter attacks.  In the 85^th minute, Lauren Holiday dribbled to the right corner flag, drawing the Boston defense to her, then lifted a cross through the box to a waiting Courtney Jones who easily scored on an empty net.  The nail in the coffin came shortly after when Merritt Mathias was on the receiving end of another Holiday cross and volleyed home the shot as Boston goalkeeper, Ashley Philips watched it sail over her head and into the net.

FC Kansas City holds a one point lead over Sky Blue FC in the standings and will have a chance to increase that lead on Sunday.  The team travels to New Jersey to play Sky Blue at Yurcak Stadium at 5:00p.m. CT.  Fans are invited to the home of the Official Watch Party for FC Kansas City, The Futbol Club, to see all the action.