E. Gaetino (11)
Watch match Highlights and Press conference
Denver Summit Starting XI
Abby Smith, Kaleigh Kurtz, Eva Gaetino, Ayooluwa Oke, Natalie Means, Devin Lynch, Delanie Sheehan, Janine Sonis, Natasha Flint, Yazmeen Ryan, Melissa Kössler
Orlando Pride Starting XI
Anna Moorhouse, Coriana Dyke, Hannah Anderson, Oihane Hernández, Hailie Mace, Haley McCutcheon, Ally Lemos, Seven Castain, Summer Yates, Julie Doyle, Barbra Banda
Denver Summit FC delivered a dominant performance at home, securing a convincing 3-1 victory over the Orlando Pride in front of an enthusiastic home crowd at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.
The Summit controlled the tempo from the opening whistle, outshooting the Pride 23 to 9 and commanding 56% of the possession. The tactical game plan executed perfectly, stifling Orlando’s attack, which was further hindered after the Pride were reduced to 10 players in the second half. when Angelina received a red card on 63rd minute. For fans looking for the definitive Denver Summit FC match highlights, this game offered a masterclass in modern NWSL Denver soccer.
Key Match Timeline
- 11′ – Early breakthrough: The Summit didn’t take long to test the Orlando defense. Off a precise delivery from Yazmeen Ryan, Eva Gaetino found the back of the net to put Denver up 1-0 early in the first half.
- 54′ – Cushion from the Spot: After maintaining high pressure into the second half, Denver was awarded a penalty kick. Janine Sonis stepped up and calmly converted, doubling the Summit’s lead.
- 76′ – A Brief Scare: Orlando’s star forward Barbra Banda managed to pull one back for the visitors against the run of play, cutting Denver’s lead to 2-1.
- 77′ – Swift response: Any anxiety in the stadium was instantly erased just a minute later. Janine Sonis struck again, netting her second goal of the night to permanently restore the two-goal cushion.
Player Spotlight: With her brilliant performance tonight, Janine Sonis has now recorded her second consecutive brace, following up her two-goal display against the Houston Dash last week with another spectacular double against Orlando.
Standings Shake-up and Team Performance
This crucial result marks the second win in a row and first at home win for Denver, who are finding their peak form at the perfect time. Orlando Pride were looking to bounce back after a disappointing mid-week loss to Boston Legacy FC just days prior. More importantly, this head-to-head victory has caused an immediate shake-up in the NWSL standings, with the Summit officially leapfrogging the Pride to take Orlando’s spot in the table.
Looking Ahead
With this statement win under their belts, Denver Summit FC will look to carry this incredible momentum on the road. They travel next to face the Utah Royals on Saturday, May 23, at 4:30 PM. Local fans looking to catch the team back in Colorado can keep an eye on Centennial Stadium upcoming matches as the summer schedule heats up.
