Highland Heights, KY (June 21st, 2024) - After a tough match under the hot sun, Kings Hammer FC’s USL W League team secured 1 point at home over the weekend in their battle against USL W League playoff-bound Indy Eleven.

Kings Hammer FC saw 165 fans flock to Scudamore Stadium to see their matchup against Indy Eleven. During the first half, KHFC ladies worked hard to keep the pressure on Indy Eleven’s defensive line. In the first 5 minutes, KHFC’s Lilly Yordy was able to take a shot towards goal resulting in a save from Indy’s Kathleen Phillips. Following shortly after, both Lauren Flax and Kylee Simmons were also able to try their hand at finding the back of the net but were blocked both times. Kings Hammer FC continued to dominate with possession until the 30th minute, when Indy’s Katie Soderstrom was able to take a shot that was just off target, going up and over the goal. 

That moment marked a turning point for Indy Eleven’s forward line, as they began to fight for more possession in the later minutes of the first half. Both teams start to find their footing and are able to create a few more opportunities for shots on goal but can’t find the net. The ladies head into the locker room for half time with the scoreboard reading 0-0.

In the second half, it’s clear that the players were feeling the heat. Both sides made substitutions at half in hopes that the fresh legs would help them get some goals on the board. Indy Eleven took their chance in the 51st minute as Kayla Budish was able to secure the first goal of the night from the far side following a cross from the center of the box by Natalie Mitchell.

The KHFC ladies continued to try and create opportunities for themselves. Sensing the need to shake things up, Kings Hammer decided to bring in McKenzie Carle and Ava Arengo 10 minutes after Indy’s goal. The game continued in a back-and-forth fashion. In the 70th minute, Indy Eleven’s Norah Jacomen almost took another goal but was blocked 3 times in a row by KHFC’s defensive line and goalkeeper Maria Galley. Kings Hammer decided to make their final substitutions of the night in the in 72nd minute, bringing in Alexis Goins and Kali Stock. The KHFC ladies are able to create a few opportunities for themselves, but are either off target or saved by Phillips. As the match reached it’s final minutes, KHFC’s luck began to turn. McKenzie Carles pressed the goal in the 83rd minute and took a shot. In a failed attempt to deflect the ball, Indy Eleven gifted Kings Hammer their equalizing goal of the night as the ball flew off an Indy defender and into their goal. 

Indy’s frustration was displayed on the field as their forward line shot down the field off of the restart, taking a shot towards goal that was just a bit high. As the minutes ticked away, both teams attempted to capitalize on their shot opportunity to take the victory. A foul on KHFC’s Taylor White gave them an opportunity to score off of a free kick in overtime, but the shot wasn’t able to find it’s way through Indy’s wall. As the whistle blew, the scoreboard read 1-1 and the match ended in a draw. Once again, Kings Hammer FC was able to hold their own against Indy Eleven.

Following the news of the tie, the USL W League announced that Indy Eleven has clinched the playoffs. Kings Hammer FC is currently sitting at the number 2 spot in the valley division as they gear up to take on St Charles FC once more for the last home match for the ladies of the season.

Next up, the rematch between Kings Hammer FC’s USL W League team and St Charles FC will be held on Wednesday, June 26th at 7pm at Scudamore Field. Click here to buy tickets!