Week 11 Photo Gallery
Carolina Ascent FC
Tampa Bay Sun returns to face Brooklyn, Dallas looks to end Carolina’s undefeated run | News & Notes Week 11
WEEK 11 SCHEDULE
Wednesday, October 23
Brooklyn FC v Tampa Bay Sun FC, 7:30 p.m. ET
Friday, October 25
DC Power FC v Lexington SC, 7:30 p.m. ET
Dallas Trinity FC v Carolina Ascent FC, 8 p.m. ET
Sunday, October 27
Brooklyn FC v Fort Lauderdale United FC, 2 p.m. ET
Spokane Zephyr FC v Tampa Bay Sun FC, 7:30 p.m. ET
- Read the Match Previews for Week 10
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REWIND: WEEK 10 NOTES
BKN 1 – 1 CAR
- GOALS:
Jaydah Bedoya (CAR) 22’, Rylee Baisden assist.
Allison Pantuso (BKN) 54’, Mackenzie Pluck assist. - STORYLINES:
First Goals: Both Bedoya’s and Pantuso’s goals were their first of the 2024/25 season.
National Team Teammates: Brooklyn GK Sydney Martinez and Carolina defender Jill Aguilera both compete for the Puerto Rican National Team. - QUOTES:
Carolina Head Coach Philip Poole:
On Jaydah Bedoya scoring her first professional goal… “Jaydah is a talented individual in wide areas when she isolates 1v1, but she’s just as dangerous coming in from the back side and getting around the back post. It was a great finish tonight from Jaydah. She was close to scoring her first a week ago, and it’s always going to come. Jaydah is a young player who is always growing and getting opportunities. I’m really proud of her.”
Carolina goal scorer Jaydah Bedoya:
On scoring her first professional goal… “It feels awesome. To be able to score my first goal as a professional is something that I always dreamed of. My emotions were so high seeing it happen. I have to give credit to Rylee; it was an amazing ball put through, and I was there to put it in the corner.”
DC 0 – 0 DAL
- STORYLINES:
Deadlock: This was the second match between the two teams that has ended in a tie. The teams previously met during Week 4 where they split points in a 1-1 draw.
First Clean Sheet: Dallas Trinity recorded its first clean sheet of the season. - QUOTES:
Dallas Head Coach Pauline MacDonald:
On the team’s first clean sheet of the season… “I’m absolutely delighted. One of the things we’ve been working on really, really hard this week is our defensive play and our organization behind the ball. I think that a clean sheet tonight on the road is a huge accomplishment for us as a group.”
CAR 2 – 0 BKN
- GOALS:
Ashlynn Serepca (CAR) 19’, Josie Studer assist.
Ashlynn Serepca (CAR) 73’, Josie Studer assist. - STORYLINES:
First Goal: Serepca found the back of the net for the first time this season.
First Brace: Serepca’s pair of goals made history as the first brace ever for Carolina Ascent.
Youngest: Stella Spitzer, 14 years old, subbed into the match in the 90+5’, making her the youngest player to ever take the pitch in the USL Super League.
4th Shutout: Meagan McClelland recorded a league-leading fourth clean sheet in the competition. - QUOTES:
Carolina goal scorer Ashlynn Serepca:
On scoring her first two goals of the season… “It was so exciting. I thought I was going to cry on the field and that never happens. It definitely meant a lot. I wouldn’t be able to do it without this team. The first goal was a great ball by Josie and something we’ve worked on and practiced all week. I’m so happy for the team and glad I could be there at the right place at the right time.”
FTL 1 – 2 LEX
- GOALS:
Addie McCain (FTL) 22’
Madi Parsons (LEX) 37’, Shea Moyer assist.
Madi Parsons (LEX), Kailey Utley assist. - STORYLINES:
League Leader: Addie McCain continues to lead the league in scoring, with her sixth of the season coming against Lexington.
Close Behind: Right behind McCain in the Golden Boot race is Lexington’s Madi Parsons who scored the club’s first brace in the match, giving her four goals on the season.
End of the Streak: FTL UTD’s win streak was broken at three with the loss to Lexington.
On a Roll: Lexington is starting to find its groove as they have strung together a pair of wins – the only club currently on a winning streak. - QUOTES:
Lexington Head Coach Michael Dickey:
On winning a second match in a row… “Winning is the best, it’s what we’re here for, to win games. We’re real excited about getting the points, winning some games. The deal is it’s a new league and a new team, new coaching staff, we’re learning every week about what our players can do, what they still need to train in order to be able to do better. Same thing on us as coaches, too, what do we need to do to better help them perform at their highest level and how can we maximize their skill sets? We’re all getting better every week.”
Lexington goal scorer Madi Parsons:
On winning a second match in a row… “The last three games have been truly special for our team. We’ve been grinding day in and day out since July, and to finally see all that hard work paying off is incredibly rewarding. Each game has added to our growing momentum, and with every win, that energy just builds. We’ve proven to ourselves, to our fans, and to the entire league that no matter what the score is, we’ll keep fighting with everything we have until the final whistle blows. That grit is what sets us apart, and it’s been amazing to see our efforts come together in such a powerful way. The belief we have in each other is stronger than ever, and we’re just getting started.”
On her journey so far… “I’m so grateful for this opportunity to play for Lexington because, a year ago, playing professional soccer wasn’t even a thought in my mind. My teammates and coaches have been so supportive, and I am grateful for their guidance. I’m excited for the upcoming games because we have something special to prove, not just for ourselves but to everyone watching to never count us out. There’s an excitement within the team, and we’re all ready to ride this wave of momentum and show teams what we’re truly capable of.”
WEEK 11 STORYLINES
8 PLAYERS CALLED UP
USL Super League Players on International Duty in October:
- Argentina (1) – Sophia Braun (Spokane Zephyr FC)
- Bosnia and Herzegovina (1) – Emina Ekić (Spokane Zephyr FC)
- Costa Rica (1) – Gaby Guillén (Dallas Trinity FC)
- Haiti (1) – Claire Constant (DC Power FC)
- Morocco (1) – Salma Amani (Brooklyn FC)
- Panama (1) – Riley Tanner (Spokane Zephyr FC)
- Philippines (1) – Katrina Guillou (DC Power FC)
- Wales (1) – Charlie Estcourt (DC Power FC)
More info on international call ups here.
DEFENDERS SHOW SCORING PROWESS
Every Super League team has had at least one defender score a goal within its first seven matches of the season. 17 of the 63 goals so far this season (excluding own goals) came from defenders. Read more here.
USF REUNION
This week’s matchup between Tampa Bay Sun and Brooklyn will be feature a handful of alumni from the University of South Florida. Brooklyn goalkeeper Sydney Martinez and Tampa’s Viv Bessette and Sydny Nasello all played for the Bulls from 2020-2021, led by current Tampa head coach Denise Schilte-Brown who was at the helm of the university’s program for 17 seasons.
The two clubs met during Week 5 of the season and resulted in a 1-0 victory for Brooklyn.
STANFORD CONNECTION
Lexington SC’s Sarah Cox and DC Power FC’s Mariah Lee were teammates at Stanford University for two years in 2014 and 2015. Cox and Lee helped lead the Cardinals to the NCAA Tournament Quarterfinals in 2014 and were PAC-12 regular season champions.
TARHEEL TEAMMATES
Defenders Amber Brooks (DAL) and Vicky Bruce (CAR) were teammates in 2012 at one of the top collegiate programs in the country – the University of North Carolina Tarheels. The pair won the NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament Championship in 2012, which is the last time the university won the title.
Additionally, Carolina’s Emily Moxley and Cannon Clough and Dallas’ Julia Dorsey and Samantha Meza also completed their collegiate careers at UNC.
OPPOSITES ATTRACT
The Week 11 matchup between Lexington and DC Power will see the team with the highest goals scored (LEX, 12 goals), take on the team with the lowest goals scored (DC, 4 goals). While Lexington has scored the most goals so far this season, they have also allowed the most goals (18).
DISCIPLINE REPORT – WEEK 11
TAMPA, Fla. – There are no new suspensions to report.
LEAGUE LEADERS
GOALS:
- Addie McCain (FTL) – 6 goals
- Madison Parsons (LEX) – 4 goals
- Allie Thornton (DAL) – 3 goals
- Sydney Shephard (LEX) – 3 goals
- 13 players – 2 goals
- 18 players – 1 goal
ASSISTS:
- Madison Perez (LEX) – 5 assists
- Rylee Baisden (CAR) – 3 assists
- 6 players – 2 assists
- 21 players – 1 assist
CLEAN SHEETS:
- Meagan McClelland (CAR) – 4 clean sheets
- Morgan Aquino (DC) – 3 clean sheets
- Sydney Martinez (BKN) – 2 clean sheets
- Ashley Orkus (TB) – 2 clean sheets
- 5 players – 1 clean sheet
MILESTONES
HAT TRICKS:
- DAL – Allie Thornton (9.13.24)
- FTL – Addie McCain (9.22.24)
BRACES:
- DAL – Chimoa Ubogagu (9.13.24)
- DC – Madison Wolfbauer (9.29.24)
- TB – Cecilie Fløe Nielsen (10.2.24)
- CAR – Ashlynn Serepca (10.19.24)
- LEX – Madison Parsons (10.19.24)
All eight clubs in action in five upcoming matches | Week 11 Match Previews
Brooklyn FC vs. Tampa Bay Sun FC
Venue: Rocco B Commisso Soccer Stadium; New York, NY
Kickoff: Wednesday, October 23; 7:30 p.m. ET
Weather: Partly cloudy, 56°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- Brooklyn defeated Tampa Bay 1-0 earlier this season when the two sides met at Riverfront Stadium.
- Tampa Bay is undefeated on the road (2-0-1).
- Brooklyn goalkeeper Sydney Martinez and Tampa Bay’s Viv Bessette and Sydny Nasello all played for the University of South Florida from 2020-2021, led by current Tampa head coach Denise Schilte-Brown who was at the helm of the university’s program for 17 seasons.
- Brooklyn’s Salma Amani was called up to join the Morocco women’s national team for two upcoming friendlies.
- Tampa Bay’s Ella Martinez is with Colombia at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic.
Players to Watch
BKN – Leah Scarpelli: Scarpelli has been dominating the left flank for Brooklyn this season. The outside back is a force defensively while also playing a role in the team’s attack. She combined for 10 duels won, six clearances and four tackles in both of last week’s matches.
TB – Cecilie Fløe Nielsen: In just her second appearance with the Sun, Nielsen recorded a brace to help the team to a 3-0 win over DC. In those two matches, three of her six shots were on target, and she’s won 11 of 21 total duels.
| Brooklyn FC | Tampa Bay Sun FC | |
| Head Coach | Jess Silva | Denise Schilte-Brown |
| Club Record | 3-3-2 | 2-1-3 |
| Standings | 2nd | 5th |
DC Power FC vs. Lexington SC
Venue: Audi Field; Washington, D.C.
Kickoff: Friday, October 25; 7:30 p.m. ET
Weather: Partly cloudy, 52°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- This is the first meeting between the two teams.
- Lexington is on a two-match winning streak and is unbeaten in the last three.
- Lexington has scored the most goals this season (12), and DC has scored the least (4).
- DC’s Katrina Guillou and Charlie Estcourt are on international duty with the Philippines and Wales women’s national teams.
- Lexington SC’s Sarah Cox and DC Power FC’s Mariah Lee were teammates at Stanford University for two years in 2014 and 2015. Cox and Lee helped lead the Cardinals to the NCAA Tournament Quarterfinals in 2014 and were PAC-12 regular season champions.
Players to Watch
DC – Susanna Friedrichs: The defender has looked stronger as the season progresses and thwarted the offensive efforts of Dallas in the team’s latest draw. Friedrichs maintained nearly 90% passing accuracy while making four clearances and one tackle in the match.
LEX – Madison Parsons: Lexington earned its second straight win due to the offensive efforts of Parsons. Her size and speed make her one of the most dangerous strikers in the league and the person DC will most likely need to shut down in hopes for a win.
| DC Power FC | Lexington SC | |
| Head Coach | Frédéric Brillant | Mike Dickey |
| Club Record | 1-4-4 | 2-4-2 |
| Standings | 7th | 6th |
Dallas Trinity FC vs. Carolina Ascent FC
Venue: Cotton Bowl; Dallas, TX
Kickoff: Friday, October 25; 8:00 p.m. ET
Weather: Clear skies, 66°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- This is the first meeting between the two teams.
- Dallas is returning home after a three-match road stretch, going 1-1-1.
- Carolina remains the only unbeaten team in the league.
- Dallas’ Gaby Guillén was called up to join the Colombia women’s national team for two upcoming friendlies.
- Defenders Amber Brooks (DAL) and Vicky Bruce (CAR) were teammates in 2012 at one of the top collegiate programs in the country – the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. The pair won the NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament Championship in 2012, which is the last time the university won the title.
Players to Watch
DAL – Hannah Davison: The center back has come up huge for Dallas’ backline; she recorded five clearances, a tackle and an interception in the team’s last match. Her height and instincts in front of goal have also made her a great target for crosses into the box.
CAR – Giovanna DeMarco: DeMarco has been one of the most impressive and reliable holding midfielders in the league. In Carolina’s matches last week, she recorded 15 duels won, nine tackles and three clearances.
| Dallas Trinity FC | Carolina Ascent FC | |
| Head Coach | Pauline Macdonald | Philip Poole |
| Club Record | 2-1-3 | 4-0-4 |
| Standings | 4th | 1st |
Brooklyn FC vs. Fort Lauderdale United FC
Venue: Rocco B Commisso Soccer Stadium; New York, NY
Kickoff: Sunday, October 27; 2 p.m. ET
Weather: Sunny, 57°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- Fort Lauderdale defeated Brooklyn 1-0 earlier this season when the two sides met at FTL UTD Stadium.
- Both teams are looking to bounce back from losses in Week 10.
- Fort Lauderdale’s Reese Klein was called up to the U.S. U-19 national team for a training camp running from Oct. 24-30.
Players to Watch
BKN – Allison Pantuso: Along with scoring her first goal of the season last week, Pantuso has been a cornerstone in Brooklyn’s backline. She leads the team in tackles won (19) and second in duels won (45) while playing every minute this season.
FTL – Celia Gaynor: On the other side of the field is Celia Gaynor, another strong defender that hasn’t come off the field for her team. She recorded four clearances and an interception while also creating one chance in Fort Lauderdale’s last match.
| Brooklyn FC | Fort Lauderdale United FC | |
| Head Coach | Jess Silva | Tyrone Mears |
| Club Record | 3-3-2 | 3-2-1 |
| Standings | 2nd | 3rd |
Spokane Zephyr FC vs. Tampa Bay Sun FC
Venue: ONE Spokane Stadium; Spokane, WA
Kickoff: Sunday, October 27; 5 p.m. ET
Weather: Overcast, 55°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- This is the first meeting between the two teams.
- This is Spokane’s last home match of the fall season.
- Emina Ekić, Sophia Braun and Riley Tanner were all called up from Spokane for the upcoming FIFA international window.
- Spokane is looking for its first win in over a month. It has gone 0-2-1 in its last three matches.
Players to Watch
SPK – McKenzie Weinert: The striker is itching for her first goal of the season, and we all can feel it coming. She leads the league in shots (20) with half on target and is tied for most interceptions on the team (10).
TB – Kristen Edmonds: The veteran defender has been tough for strikers to get past this season, with 28 duels won and seven tackles. Edmonds is another player we can expect to play for all 90 minutes.
| Spokane Zephyr FC | Tampa Bay Sun FC | |
| Head Coach | Jo Johnson | Denise Schilte-Brown |
| Club Record | 1-3-3 | 2-1-3 |
| Standings | 8th | 5th |
Super League Power Rankings – Week 10
Lexington jumps to No. 2 after back-to-back wins
After three weeks away, Carolina Ascent FC has returned to its spot at the top of the rankings, and Lexington SC has jumped to second place, its highest appearance of the season.
The two clubs were the only ones to come away with wins in Week 10, and just when the league was bragging about the stellar scoring of defenders, the strikers showed up. Carolina and Lexington both earned their victories behind braces from Ashlynn Serepca and Madison Parsons.
Serepca is one of the many attacking talents on Carolina’s roster. Appearing in all eight matches for the team, she has tallied six of eight shots on target, 41 duels won, 11 interceptions and five chances created. She was finally rewarded with her first goals of the season and helped the Ascent win its first match in over a month.
For Lexington, Parsons is now the team’s leading scorer (4) after her heroics secured the comeback 2-1 win on Saturday. The striker has started every match for Lexington, recording 10 shots, six shots on target, 37 duels won and 10 chances created.
Serepca and Parsons were the first to record braces for their clubs and were the fourth and fifth to record a brace in the league this season. Both players will be ones to watch out for heading into Week 11.
On The Move
Rank |
Team |
Change |
Summary |
|
| 1 |  |
Carolina Ascent FC (4-0-4) Week 10: @ DAL |
 2Last Week: 3 |
Carolina is still the only club without a loss, and it earned four points from two solid performances against Brooklyn last week. The team’s offense is picking back up after a minor slump – with Jaydah Bedoya and Ashlynn Serepca both scoring their first goals of the season – and the defense continues to shine in every match. |
| 2 |  |
Lexington SC (2-4-2) Week 10: @ DC |
5 Last Week: 7 |
It may be unexpected, but it’s well deserved. The Girls in Green battled to a 3-2 win over Spokane and a comeback 2-1 victory over Fort Lauderdale, both on the road. They are finally playing as a group and staying locked in for the full 90 minutes and getting rewarded for it. |
| 3 |  |
Fort Lauderdale United FC (3-2-1) Week 10: @ BKN |
 2Last Week: 1 |
If it wasn’t for an incredible goal line clearance in second-half stoppage time, Fort Lauderdale would have come away with a point on Saturday. The team is still one of the toughest in the league and has an opportunity to get back on track with a rematch against Brooklyn this weekend. |
| 4 |  |
Dallas Trinity FC (2-1-3) Week 10: vs. CAR |
2 Last Week: 2 |
Dallas has been pretty unpredictable lately. It went 1-1-1 in its three-match road trip, most recently playing DC Power in an underwhelming scoreless draw. Going back home and hosting Carolina this week will be a big test to see if the team can rise to the occasion. |
| 5 |  |
Tampa Bay Sun FC (2-1-3) Week 10: @ BKN; vs. SPK |
 Last Week: 5 |
It’s been a long three weeks since Tampa Bay last took the field, diluting any momentum the team could have earned after its last 3-0 victory against DC. However, the Sun has had this time to build a stronger connection with the new internationals and could be a tough team for a struggling Brooklyn side to defeat on Wednesday. |
| 6 |  |
Brooklyn FC (3-3-2) Week 10: vs. TB; vs. FTL |
2 Last Week: 4 |
September Brooklyn and October Brooklyn have looked like two completely different teams. It has scored just one goal and conceded five this month; those numbers were swapped in September. The worst part is the team has to play two matches again this week. |
| 7 |  |
DC Power FC (1-4-4) Week 10: vs. LEX |
 1Last Week: 8 |
DC earned four points from its last two matches, but the win came from a last-minute own goal and the draw was 0-0. The team is still struggling to convert in front of goal, a lot of the defensive effort has fallen on Morgan Aquino, and now it has to host a red-hot Lexington side, the highest-scoring team in the league. |
| 8 |  |
Spokane Zephyr FC (1-3-3) Week 10: vs. TB |
2 Last Week: 6 |
The Zephyr had multiple chances to earn the win against both Dallas and Lexington, but they just haven’t been able to make the most of those moments all season long. With its star player in Emina Ekić away on international duty, it doesn’t look great for Spokane against Tampa Bay on Sunday. |
What we learned from Week 10 in the USL Super League
Last week featured a little bit of everything as Brooklyn FC and Carolina Ascent FC faced off twice, DC Power FC drew even with Dallas Trinity FC again and Lexington SC extended its unbeaten streak.
Here are three things we took away from last week’s matches:
1. Lexington should not be counted out
Just when it looked like Lexington might be stuck at the bottom of the standings for a while, it started picking up momentum. The team is now undefeated through its last three matches (2W-0L-1D) with both of the wins coming on the road. The comeback win on Saturday through a brace from Madison Parsons is an example of the effort the team has put in the last few weeks.
“The last three games have been truly special for our team,” Parsons said postgame. “We’ve been grinding day in and day out since July, and to finally see all that hard work paying off is incredibly rewarding. Each game has added to our growing momentum, and with every win, that energy just builds. We’ve proven to ourselves, to our fans, and to the entire league that no matter what the score is, we’ll keep fighting with everything we have until the final whistle blows.”
Lexington has also looked stronger since Claire Winter and Amanda Allen joined the team last month. The duo has combined for seven shots, five interceptions, 11 tackles and 38 duels won in the five matches played. We also have to mention the incredible saves Sarah Cox has made in her last few matches in goal. If the team can keep this form against DC Power this weekend, it can look to close out an undefeated month.
A Madi Parsons brace secures a comeback 2-1 victory and @LexSporting's second consecutive road win! 🎥
— USL Super League (@USLSuperLeague) October 20, 2024
📊https://t.co/Cg13xXArRe pic.twitter.com/P871tvcW3v
2. Brooklyn is falling hard and fast
As quickly as Brooklyn FC rocketed to the top of the standings, it has just as quickly dropped to one of the lowest performing teams in the league. It went 3W-0L-1D through its first four matches before going 0W-3L-1D in its last four.
Brooklyn is suffering from the same offensive struggles we’ve seen with DC and Spokane: unable to capitalize on scoring opportunities. In the two matches against Carolina last week, Brooklyn recorded 23 shots and six shots on target but earned scored only one goal off a great header by Allison Pantuso. It appears that the connection between Mackenzie George, Jess Garziano and Isabel Cox has fizzled out, and the team is panicking when in front of goal instead of finding the best option.
Then, the backline is having to adjust to a swapping Sydney Martinez and Neeku Purcell behind them each week. And aside from Luana Grabias, the substitutes have yet to provide much off the bench, especially when they’re replacing the speed and technical abilities of George and Garziano.
Brooklyn will host three matches before ending the fall portion of the season with three matches on the road. These next few weeks will be the best time for the team to regroup, re-find that cohesion and get back into the winning column.
3. Goal line clearances save the day
Many goalkeepers from around the league have recorded some world-class saves so far this season, but not enough credit has gone to the defenders who have hustled back to make saves of their own.
Carolina’s Jill Aguilera recorded two clearances on the back line in each half of the team’s match against Brooklyn last Tuesday. The defender’s quick instincts prevented the Ascent from potentially losing its first match of the season. Then, Saturday night’s match at FTL UTD Stadium saw Lexington’s Julie Mackin make an unbelievable clearance in stoppage time to hold on to the lead for the visitors.
bruh#LexGo #USLSuperLeague #FTLvLEX https://t.co/AiupwXG7Yu pic.twitter.com/XvUO3eXn2o
— Lexington Sporting Club (@LexSporting) October 20, 2024
Defenders show scoring prowess in opening months of USL Super League season
If you tune into a USL Super League match this season, chances are you’ll see a defender sending the ball into the back of the net.
Every team has had at least one defender score within its first seven matches of the season. Whether it’s from outside the box or on a set piece or from the penalty spot, those on the backline have become the players to watch.
The numbers still favor the forwards and midfielders: only 17 of the 58 goals (excluding own goals) came from defenders and just 13 of the 37 goal scorers are listed as defenders. But in the moments that have mattered most, a lot of the time it’s been the defenders who have stepped up to the plate.
Take Carolina Ascent. Three of its eight goals have been scored by players on the backline. Vicky Bruce scored the league’s inaugural goal, which was the game-winner in the 1-0 victory. Renée Guion scored that incredible Olimpico that kick-started a 2-1 victory against Fort Lauderdale. Sydney Studer’s header against Spokane took all the wind out of the Zephyr’s sails in that 2-0 road win.
Then you have players like Lexington center back Sydney Shepherd, who is tied for second in the league with three goals this campaign. Her most recent? A stoppage-time winner against Spokane last Sunday night, which earned the club its first win of the season.
Madison Wolfbauer stepped up for DC Power to convert two penalty kicks in one match just weeks after joining the team in September.
Brooklyn’s Allison Pantuso scored an incredible header earlier this week to prevent the team from suffering its third loss in a row.
The execution of these goals has also been on point. Defenders have scored 10 of the 14 headers and four of the eight goals from outside the box this season. The Tampa Bay Sun’s Brooke Hendrix and Dallas Trinity’s Hannah Davison both headed home goals to split points in their first matchup. Spokane’s Haley Thomas redirected the perfect header on frame to lift the team to its first win of the season. Fort Lauderdale’s Reese Klein blasted a shot off a cleared corner kick to take home the win in the team’s home opener.
Of all the goal scorers, defenders and non-defenders are shooting at about the same accuracy: 56.96% and 54.85%, respectively, However, defenders are converting at a 44.11% rate compared to other goal scorers at 24.95%. Obviously, forwards and midfielders take more shots, but when the defenders have taken their chances, they have proved to be just as, if not more effective than everyone else.
While it’s unlikely any defenders will be making waves in the Golden Boot race, how many more center backs can we expect to get a goal to their names this season?
Four USL Super League players called up to U.S. Youth National Team U-19 Training Camp
U.S. Under-19 Women’s Youth National Team head coach Carrie Kveton has named four Super League players to her 24-player roster for a training camp running from Oct. 24-30. Fort Lauderdale United FC’s Reese Klein, Lexington SC’s Emma Johnson, Carolina Ascent’s Charlotte Burge and Dallas Trinity FC’s Sealey Strawn will join the team in West Palm Beach, FL.
Klein has made three appearances for Fort Lauderdale this season, totaling 77 minutes of action. She most recently scored the game-winner in the team’s home opener, lifting it to a 1-0 victory against Brooklyn FC. The defender was an alternate on the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Team and competed with the U.S. U-19 Team in the Pan American Games in 2023. She is committed to play next fall at Clemson University.
Johnson has started one of her two matches played for Lexington this season, recording three interceptions, four duels won and a 77.8% passing accuracy. The defender was also called up to a U.S. U-15 training camp in 2022. Johnson was a part of Indy Eleven’s championship run in 2023 in the USL W League. She is set to join Penn State University’s women’s soccer team in 2026.
Burge joined Carolina Ascent this summer, becoming the youngest women’s professional goalkeeper in the United States at 18 years old. Burge relocated to Germany to play with 1.FFC Kaisterslautern in 2023 and was invited to preseason training with NWSL club Bay FC earlier this year. A native of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Burge trained with USL League Two side, Virginia Beach United, for many summers and has also attended a plethora of U.S. Youth National Team ID Camps.
Strawn has made two appearances for Dallas this season, totaling 90 minutes on the field. Strawn boasts an impressive list of achievements, including being a 2021 and 2023 ECNL Champion, 2020 National League Champion, 2019 Super Copa Champion, and 2018 State Cup Champion. Additionally, she was invited to join the U.S. U-15 Women’s Youth National Team roster. She will join the UNC Tar Heels in 2026.
This U-19 Training Camp is in preparation for the next FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, which will be held in Poland in 2026. All players on the roster will be age-eligible for the tournament.
Lexington, Dallas search for another road win | News & Notes Week 10
WEEK 10 SCHEDULE
Tuesday, October 15
Brooklyn FC v Carolina Ascent FC, 7:30 p.m. ET
Wednesday, October 16
DC Power FC v Dallas Trinity FC, 7:30 p.m. ET
Saturday, October 19
Carolina Ascent FC v Brooklyn FC, 7 p.m. ET
Fort Lauderdale United FC v Lexington SC, 7:30 p.m. ET
- Read the Match Previews for Week 10
- Sign up for the Super Newsletter
NEWS & NOTES
TWO LATE GOALS SECURE FIRST WINS
As Week 9 kicked off, DC Power FC and Lexington SC were still looking for their first victories. In a dramatic finish, both teams found the back of the net in the dying moments of the match, earning their inaugural wins. Now, every club in the league has at least one win to celebrate.
DC’s breakthrough came in the eighth minute of stoppage time against a tough Brooklyn FC side. The forced own goal came off a nicely placed corner kick from Katie Duong in the final moments of the match.
In a back-and-forth battle, Lexington SC’s Sydney Shepard scored the game-winner in the fourth minute of second-half stoppage time to defeat Spokane Zephyr FC 3-2 for the club’s first win in club history.
FIVE FOR PEREZ
Lexington SC defender Madison Perez assisted on the club’s game-winning goal in Week 9, recording her league-leading fifth assist of the season. All five of her assists have been on set pieces.
HOME AND AWAY
Brooklyn FC and Carolina Ascent FC will see each other twice this week, first in New York and four days later in Charlotte, NC. Both clubs started the season hot but have cooled down in their last couple matches respectively. Carolina remains the only unbeaten team, but will Brooklyn rain on their parade?
AVERAGE AGE
The average age for each USL Super League club is below with Lexington having the lowest by nearly a full year and DC Power FC rounding out the list with the highest average age.
Lexington SC: 22.71
Fort Lauderdale United FC: 23.6
Carolina Ascent FC: 23.67
Brooklyn FC: 23.86
Dallas Trinity FC: 24.35
Spokane Zephyr FC: 24.57
Tampa Bay Sun FC: 25.52
DC Power FC: 25.91
FTL’S WIN STREAK
Fort Lauderdale United FC is going for its fourth consecutive win when it hosts Lexington on Saturday. FTL UTD picked up its first two wins on the road against DC and Lexington, and it most recently earned three points at home against Brooklyn.
COLLEGE CONNECTIONS
Brooklyn FC vs Carolina Ascent FC: Brooklyn’s Sasha Pickard (2019-2023) and Carolina’s Ashlynn Serepca (2021-2022) both played key roles during their two seasons together at the University of Alabama. Additionally, Brooklyn’s Allison Pantuso (2015-2018) played her last season at Oregon State University with Carolina’s Sydney Studer (2018-2020).
APPROACHING THE HALFWAY POINT
During the Fall Schedule, every club is slated to compete in 14 matches and Week 10 will see most Super League teams hit or pass that 7-match mark.
DISCIPLINE REPORT – WEEK 10
TAMPA, Fla. – There are no new suspensions to report.
LEAGUE LEADERS
GOALS:
- Addie McCain (FTL) – 5 goals
- Allie Thornton (DAL) – 3 goals
- Sydney Shephard (LEX) – 3 goals
- 13 players – 2 goals
ASSISTS:
- Madison Perez (LEX) – 5 assists
- Amber Brooks (DAL) – 2 assists
- Chioma Ubogagu (DAL) – 2 assists
- Emina Ekic (SPK) – 2 assists
- Jillienne Aguilera (CAR) – 2 assists
- Rylee Baisden (CAR) – 2 assists
- Madison Parsons (LEX) – 2 assists
CLEAN SHEETS:
- Meagan McClelland (CAR) – 3 clean sheets
- Sydney Martinez (BKN) – 2 clean sheets
- Ashley Orkus (TB) – 2 clean sheets
- Morgan Aquino (DC) – 2 clean sheets
CLUB MILESTONES
First Goal in Club History:
- CAR – Vicky Bruce (8.17.24)
- SPK – Emina Ekić (8.17.24)
- FTL – Addie McCain (8.17.24)
- DAL – Hannah Davison (8.18.24)
- TB – Brooke Hendrix (8.18.24)
- LEX – Sydney Shepherd (8.25.24)
- DC – Jorian Baucom (9.7.24)
- BKN – Jessica Garziano (9.8.24)
First Assist in Club History:
- CAR – Audrey Harding (8.17.24)
- FTL – Felicia Knox (8.17.24)
- DAL – Chioma Ubogagu (8.18.24)
- TB – Ashley Clark (8.18.24)
- LEX – Madison Perez (8.25.24)
- SPK – Emina Ekić (9.8.24)
- BKN – Hope Breslin (9.14.24)
First Clean Sheet in Club History:
- CAR – Meagan McClelland (8.17.24)
- DC – Morgan Acquino (8.24.24)
- TB – Ashley Orkus (8.24.24)
- FTL – TEAM (9.13.24)
- BKN – Sydney Martinez (9.14.24)
- SPK – Izzy Nino (9.22.24)
- FTL – Cosette Morche (10.6.24)
Lexington, DC look to build on first wins, Brooklyn faces Carolina twice | Week 10 Match Previews
Brooklyn FC vs. Carolina Ascent FC
Venue: Rocco B Commisso Soccer Stadium; New York, NY
Kickoff: Tuesday, October 14; 7:30 p.m. ET
Weather: Clear skies, 42°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- This is the first of two matches between the clubs this week. Carolina will host the second match on Saturday.
- Brooklyn is coming off two consecutive losses to Fort Lauderdale United and DC Power.
- Carolina Ascent is the last undefeated team left standing in the league.
Players to Watch
BKN – Mackenzie George: The midfielder is nearly unstoppable when she’s in the attacking third. George is great with her back to goal and holding up play to find the right cross or ball in, but she is also not afraid to take shots herself.
CAR – Sydney Studer: Studer has played a crucial role in the defensive success Carolina has seen in recent matches. She reads the game well and can challenge for the ball without fouling while also knowing when to take her space and sending great balls forward.
| Brooklyn FC | Carolina Ascent FC | |
| Head Coach | Jess Silva | Philip Poole |
| Club Record | 3-2-1 | 3-0-3 |
| Standings | 3rd | 1st |
DC Power FC vs. Dallas Trinity FC
Venue: Audi Field; Washington, D.C.
Kickoff: Wednesday, October 15; 7:30 p.m. ET
Weather: Clear skies, 40°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- DC and Dallas played to a 1-1 draw earlier this season when the two sides met at the Cotton Bowl.
- DC won its first match of the season last week against Brooklyn FC.
- Dallas is coming off a bye week and won its last game in Week 8 against Spokane Zephyr.
Players to Watch
DC – Katie Duong: The Stanford alum has been the primary play maker for DC this season. She leads the league in chances created, and she was the one who took the corner kick that led to the own goal that gave the team its first win.
DAL – Gracie Brian: The midfielder out of TCU has looked more and more comfortable as Dallas’ season progresses. She recorded her first goal in the team’s last match along with three shots on goal, six of eight duels won, three interceptions and two clearances.
| DC Power FC | Dallas Trinity FC | |
| Head Coach | Frédéric Brillant | Pauline Macdonald |
| Club Record | 1-4-3 | 2-1-2 |
| Standings | 7th | 5th |
Carolina Ascent FC vs. Brooklyn FC
Venue: American Legion Memorial Stadium; Charlotte, NC
Kickoff: Saturday, October 19; 7 p.m. ET
Weather: Clear skies, 45°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- The two sides played to a 1-1 draw in their match earlier this week. Carolina’s Jaydah Bedoya and Brooklyn’s Allison Pantuso both scored their first goals of the season.
- Carolina’s Jill Aguilera and Brooklyn’s Sydney Martinez both play for the Puerto Rican women’s national team.
- Carolina’s Mia Corbin and Brooklyn’s Leah Scarpelli played together for Australian club Brisbane Roar FC prior to joining the Super League.
- Carolina’s Meagan McClelland (2018-2022) and Brooklyn’s Sam Kroeger (2020-2023) played three seasons together at Rutgers University.
Players to Watch
CAR – Jaydah Bedoya: The midfielder has looked more comfortable as the season has continued and was rewarded with an excellent goal in the last match. Bedoya created four chances and had five tackles earlier this week, making her one to watch on Saturday.
BKN – Mackenzie Pluck: Pluck was involved in a lot of the build up plays for Brooklyn earlier this week and sent in the cross for Pantuso’s equalizer. She provides another option when making overlapping runs while still getting back on defense, seen by her three won tackles in the match.
| Carolina Ascent FC | Brooklyn FC | |
| Head Coach | Philip Poole | Jess Silva |
| Club Record | 3-0-4 | 3-2-2 |
| Standings | 1st | 2nd |
Fort Lauderdale United FC vs. Lexington SC
Venue: FTL UTD Stadium; Fort Lauderdale, FL
Kickoff: Saturday, October 19; 7:30 p.m. ET
Weather: Partly cloudy, 77°
Broadcast: Peacocktv.com
Things to Know
- Fort Lauderdale defeated Lexington 3-1 earlier this season.
- Both teams are coming off wins: Fort Lauderdale defeated Brooklyn 1-0, and Lexington won 3-2 last week against Spokane.
Players to Watch
FTL – Sh’Nia Gordon: Gordon’s speed and ball control are two of her most impressive assets that she brings to Fort Lauderdale’s frontline. She leads the team in shots (15) and tallied two on goal in its last match, along with two successful crosses and two interceptions.
LEX – Sydney Shepherd: For a defender, Shepherd always finds herself in the right place at the right time when the team is in need of a goal. She provided the game-winner last week while still doing her work on the defensive end with four clearances, one tackle and one interception.
| Fort Lauderdale United FC | Lexington SC | |
| Head Coach | Tyrone Mears | Mike Dickey |
| Club Record | 3-1-1 | 1-4-2 |
| Standings | 3rd | 8th |