At the first-ever NWSL game in Richmond, the Washington Spirit fell 3-0 to the North Carolina Courage in front of a crowd of 6,235 fans. North Carolina scored twice in the first half hour through Abby Erceg and Jess McDonald before adding a late Lynn Williams goal. Washington’s substantial contingent of internationals all made their first appearances of 2018 after missing last week’s win over the UNC Tar Heels.
North Carolina controlled play from kick-off, particularly through attacks from the flanks. The combination of Jess McDonald and former Spirit player Crystal Dunn would test any defense and the Spirit were no exception.