Sam Kerr marked her return to the National Women's Soccer League with a crucial equalizing goal for Gotham FC, tying the match 2-2 against Portland Thorns in the 62nd minute.
Gotham FC's Sam Kerr was her own toughest critic after the match, admitting she did not think much of her overall performance at Providence Park. "I'm obviously happy to score, help the team, but I expect more from myself," Kerr said post-match. "So I wasn't too happy with how I played. Quite disappointing, to be honest."
Gotham FC's high-profile return has been a significant acquisition in the league, with Kerr signing with the reigning NWSL champions through the 2030 season after leaving Chelsea this summer. The 32-year-old has a storied past with the club, which was then known as Sky Blue FC.
Emily Sonnett's return to Providence Park was short-lived, as the Gotham defender was taken off on a stretcher after appearing to suffer a left knee injury in the seventh minute. She immediately grabbed her left knee and signaled toward the Gotham bench for medical assistance.
Gotham FC said Sonnett will undergo further evaluation after the team returns to New Jersey and she won't play Gotham's next match against Bay FC in San Jose. The club expects to share more information on the player's injury early next week.
Sonnett's absence would be significant for Gotham and the U.S. women's national team, with the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil less than a year away. Emma Hayes has consistently relied on Sonnett's versatility, deploying her wherever the squad's greatest need arose.
Jayden Perry was later sent off for the Thorns, adding to goals from Midge Purce, Renee Lyles, and Jessie Fleming. Gotham's tie was a result of a poor performance, according to Kerr. "I thought we were quite poor today. But we're probably lucky to get away with the tie in the end. I guess I am happy… that we didn’t lose."
Source: Yahoo Sports