Trinity Rodman’s goals fire Spirit into NWSL top two

The Washington Spirit are back in the NWSL title race after Trinity Rodman’s two-goal haul fired them past North Carolina Courage 2-0 on Saturday. League standing: 2nd in NWSL Women, 27 pts, 8W-3D-2L from 13 games, recent form WWWLW. The result leaves Spirit just one point behind league leaders San Diego Wave and keeps their title push alive with eight wins from 13 matches.

How did Spirit secure the road win?

Rodman opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, cutting inside before drilling a low shot past Courage goalkeeper Katie Lund. Her second in the 67th capped a swift counter that saw Andi Sullivan thread a through-ball to Rodman, who rounded Lund and slotted home. Goals this season: 22 scored, 10 conceded (+12 goal difference). The clean sheet was the Spirit’s third in five games, underlining their defensive steel under new coach Mike Jorden.

Why this win changes everything

Spirit’s rise to second spot ends a run of mixed results that saw them drop points to Gotham FC and Utah Royals. A win over Courage—one of the league’s stingiest defenses—proves they can grind out results against direct rivals. Rodman’s form is the standout: she now has six goals this season, tying her for the team lead with Ashley Sanchez. The front two’s chemistry is starting to click, and Spirit’s midfield trio of Taylor Aylmer, Tori Huster and Andi Sullivan is dictating tempo again.

Rivalry Week fallout

Spirit’s victory came as Portland Thorns lost to Seattle Reign in the Cascadia Classic, handing Washington a precious three points. Title race: 1 point behind leaders San Diego Wave. With San Diego still top despite their SoCal Showdown upset by Angel City, the Wave lead by a single point. Spirit’s next test is a clash with Utah Royals on July 19 in a six-pointer that could redefine the top four.

What’s next for Jorden’s side?

Jorden’s side faces Utah Royals on July 19, a game that could swing the standings. If Spirit take all three points, they’ll draw level with San Diego at the summit. Rodman’s fitness remains key—she’s started the last four matches and delivered in each. Defensively, goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury has made 42 saves, the third-highest total in the league. Spirit’s next home game is July 26 against Kansas City Current, where a win would tighten their grip on second place.