Four National Women's Soccer League teams fought for the final three playoff spots heading into the final weekend of the season, and it was the Houston Dash that fell short.
Despite an admirable run of form in late September and early October, the Dash suffered three consecutive losses to close out the season. Their last defeat was dealt by the Washington Spirit on Sunday, with NWSL Rookie of the Year frontrunner Trinity Rodman putting the nail to the coffin.
The 1-0 win against Houston meant that the Spirit finished in third place, helping Gotham FC and the North Carolina Courage clinch playoff spots in the process. Nonetheless, Washington will look to extend their six-game undefeated streak against Carli Lloyd’s Gotham FC on Sunday, Nov. 7.
On other Washington Spirit news, 26-year-old Ashley Hatch secured the NWSL Golden Boot for scoring the most goals this season. The American forward scored ten goals in the regular season. Four goals with each foot and two headers.
Fans around the world will enjoy the NWSL’s expanded playoff format for the first time, with six teams qualifying instead of four in prior years. The top two sides – Portland Thorns and OL Reign – earned a bye straight into the semifinals. On the other hand, the other four sides - Washington Spirit, Chicago Red Stars, Gotham FC and North Carolina Courage – will participate in the first playoffs round.
