Greater Indianapolis, IN (May 20, 2024) – The Kings Hammer FC’s women’s season opener against Indy Eleven ended in a draw, 3-3. The Kings Hammer FC women fell behind a goal in the first half but were able to step their game up during the second half to secure 3 goals to tie the match. 

The first match of the season was highly anticipated between the two teams. Kings Hammer fell behind in the first half, 1-0 against Indy Eleven. After some back-and-forth heavy play, KHFC forward, Gabrielle Britt, was able to take an impressive shot on goal, but it was saved by Indy Eleven’s GK, Ashton Blair. In the 22nd minute, Natalie Mitchell secured a goal for Indy Eleven, assisted by Elizabeth Sexton. Under heavy pressure, KHFC goalkeeper, Maria Galley, made some spectacular saves in the first half to keep KHFC within striking distance. Galley along with the KHFC defensive line barred Indy Eleven from scoring further.

Just as the second half kicked off, Indy Eleven’s Addison Chester was able to score a goal in the 46th minute giving Indy Eleven a 2-0 lead. In the 59th minute, KHFC’s left wingback, Lilly Yordy, hit a strong corner kick into the box which was headed into the goal by Taylor White, securing Kings Hammer FC’s women their first goal of the season. In the 63rd minute of consistent alternating play, Ellie Mink, KHFC’s team captain, was able to get a foot on the ball and earn her team their second goal. 

Following an impressive save by Galley, Indy Eleven’s Norah Jacomen was able to sneak by and score the team’s third and final goal of the match in the 83rd minute resulting in a roar from the crowd. As White was heading to the goal in the 89th minute, Indy Eleven’s Zoe Cuneio pulled White down outside the box resulting in a yellow card for Cuneio and a free kick for KHFC. Yordy took the kick and scored the game-tying goal in the last minute of the match.

After the game, head coach Jacob Morrison spoke on how he felt the match went, saying,

“The game started off frantic, but we grew into the game and we learned a lot from both halves. Indy Eleven has a good side, but I am proud that we can go toe-to-toe with them for the whole 90 minutes. If we can eliminate little mistakes we have every right to be in the conversation for the top two.” 

Looking ahead to their next game against Racing Louisville FC and further into the season, Morrison continued,

“You can expect us to have a better understanding of how to manage games, how to exploit what the opponent is giving us, and how to eliminate their opportunities going forward.”  

Kings Hammer FC’s next USL W League match will see the ladies face Racing Louisville FC at 7 pm this Wednesday, May 22 at Lynn Family Stadium. Streaming information will be available before the game.