The midfielder, who did not score last year despite playing in 16 games, picked up a goal in the 10th minute of URFC’s home opener Saturday at Rio Tinto. Her right-footed strike gave the Royals the left they needed to win their home opener, 1-0.
In the 10th minute, Christen Press dispossessed a Washington player in the backfield and dribbled around the box. She then passed to LaBonta, who scored with her right foot for a 1-0 Royals lead.
The Royals handed the Spirit their first loss of the season after they beat Sky Blue FC 2-0 in there opener last week.