The Washington Spirit on Saturday lost to the North Carolina Courage in an injury-marred Challenge Cup final, 2-1, ending a 20-game unbeaten streak in competitive matches dating from last August.
Concern afterward, though, focused on two Washington players involved in frightening incidents in the second half at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, N.C.
Aubrey Kingsbury, the National Women’s Soccer League’s best goalkeeper last season, smashed the side of her head into the post trying to prevent the winning goal in the 70th minute. She remained in the game after receiving medical treatment but was scheduled to undergo additional evaluation.