On Saturday, July 30, Sky Blue FC (6-4-4, 22 points) once again hits the road to take on region rivals Washington Spirit (8-3-2, 26 points) for the fourth and final time this season.
Last weekend the Spirit traveled to New Jersey to again face Sky Blue on their home turf. However, the Spirit left disappointed after Sky Blue defeated them, 1-0.
Rookie sensation Leah Galton gave Sky Blue the lead in the first half, and the Spirit were unable to equalize largely thanks to a strong defensive effort by Sky Blue's back five: Erica Skroski, captain Christie Rampone, Kristin Grubka, Erin Simon and goalkeeper Caroline Casey.
Shawna Gordon and Nikki Stanton, starting in place of Raquel Rodriguez and Sarah Killion, also had impressive performances in the midfield to shut down the Spirit attack throughout the match.
Leah Galton was not the only player to have chances on goal for Sky Blue. Forward Tasha Kai also had a number of looks, but always found her shots just wide of goal.
The win over the no. 2 Spirit propelled Sky Blue into the no. 4 spot on the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) table, putting them in a playoff position.
In advance of this weekend's rematch against the Spirit, here's a look back at last weekend's 1-0 victory.