Esther Gonzalez helps Gotham beat sinking Dash

Field Level Media|published: Sun 8th September, 15:32 2024

Sep 8, 2024; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; Houston Dash midfielder Elin Rubensson (31) and NJ/NY Gotham FC forward Esther Gonzalez (9) in action in a NWSL game at Red Bull Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark Smith-Imagn Images

Esther Gonzalez scored in the third minute of stoppage time and NJ/NY Gotham FC pulled out a 2-1 win over the visiting Houston Dash on Sunday in Harrison, N.J.

The match had been tied since the 17th minute. Mandy Freeman sent a pass deep into the attacking area that fellow substitute Lynn Williams corralled at the end line. She passed it into the box to Esther, who pivoted and split two defenders with her shot, scoring her third goal of the season and her first since April.

Gotham FC (11-4-4, 37 points) bounced back from a loss to Orlando last weekend. The Dash (3-11-5, 14 points) lost their fifth straight match and remain winless in league play since late May.

Gotham FC struck first in the 10th minute. Houston had a goal kick that Gotham players controlled with a few headers. The ball came to Esther, whose one-touch through ball clearing allowed Yazmeen Ryan to break away and score.

Seven minutes later, Avery Patterson's wide cross into the box found Diana Ordonez for a header goal for Houston, her fifth tally of the season.

--Field Level Media