Highland Heights, KY (June 15th, 2024) - In a scorching Saturday evening matchup at Scudamore Stadium, Kings Hammer FC's W League team emerged victorious from the highly anticipated rematch against Racing Louisville FC.
From kickoff, it was clear this match would have no shortage of action as shots rained on both goals. Racing Louisville FC came in hot with an aggressive offensive strategy, pressing hard and attempting to capitalize on their opportunities early. Racing Louisville FC’s forward Elizabeth Huckaby made her presence known early in the match by taking a shot on goal in the fifth minute. Fortunately, KHFC’s Natalie Bain was on defensive watch, making an incredible block and clear from the goalline. As Racing Louisville’s heavy forward presence continued, goalkeeper Maria Galley and Kings Hammer's defensive line stood their ground, blocking attack after attack.
As the first half continued, KHFC's forward line found their groove and began to match Louisville’s intensity, trailing by just one shot-on-goal as the clock neared the 25th minute. The game continued in a back-and-forth fashion until KHFC’s Taylor White broke through Louisville’s defensive line and took an incredible shot, scoring the first goal of the match in the 39th minute. KHFC refused to give up any scoring opportunities in the remainder of the first 45 minutes, heading into halftime with a narrow lead.
Coming back onto the pitch for the second half, the energy from both sides intensified. Racing Louisville’s Huckaby and Blincoe continued to get up-close and personal with Kings Hammer’s defensive line as they attempted to find the back of the net, but KHFC had found a renewed determination during the halftime break. In the 50th minute, KHFC forward Kylee Simmons took an impressive shot from the center of the box following a cross from White but Louisville’s Amber Brandon was able to make the save. By the 70th minute, both teams sat with 10 shots-on-goal each and KHFC goalkeeper Maria Galley impressed teammates and fans alike as she continued to make save after save for her team.
As the game marched on, players were feeling the strain of the high-intensity match and tensions on the pitch began to rise. Sensing the need for some fresh legs, Kings Hammer made a couple forward line substitutions in the 76th and 80th minutes. Racing Louisville responded with a late substitution in the 86th minute in an attempt to equalize the match.
Despite Racing Louisville's last-minute efforts, Kings Hammer FC’s defensive line held firm, barring any further goals and securing the home-match victory. The final whistle marked a well-deserved triumph for the KHFC ladies.
Next Up: The rematch between Kings Hammer FC’s USL W League team and Indy Eleven will be held on Friday, June 21st at 7pm at Scudamore Field. Click here to buy tickets!