The Washington Spirit’s widespread injury issues have forced newcomers to step into key roles at a crucial juncture of the NWSL season. After losses at Kansas City and Orlando in which the Spirit was stretched too thin, Washington entered its final few games with a playoff spot secured but its prospects of postseason success dulled.
Midfielder Heather Stainbrook and forward Makenna Morris stepped into starting roles in last week’s win over Racing Louisville and remained there Sunday, when the rookies continued to impress. Stainbrook scored the first goal of her career in the 31st minute and Morris added her fourth tally in four games in the 83rd to lift Washington to a 2-0 victory over the Chicago Red Stars in its home finale at Audi Field.