Zephyr

Lexington, KY – Spokane Zephyr FC played Lexington SC to a 1-1 draw on Saturday, breaking its four match losing streak and earning one point on the road. 

Spokane head coach Nicole Lukic reflected on the draw following the match. 

“I was really pleased with the intent and restlessness our attack showed today. We kept stretching the back line, creating overloads and finding pockets where we could break pressure,” said Lukic. “The foundation is there and if we keep committing to that, more goals will follow.”

Zephyr FC was aggressive offensively against Lexington SC’s top rated defense, attempting eight shots and getting three on target in the first half. Lexington entered the match having conceded the least goals in Super League this season, only allowing nine through its first 12 matches. 

Midfielder Emma Jaskaniec led the charge for Spokane, attempting four shots in the first 45 minutes, getting two on goal. Her best opportunity came in the 32nd minute when she attempted a header inside the box that sailed too strong over the goalpost. 

Despite the draw, Jaskaniec is proud of the performance Zephyr FC had against first place Lexington SC.

“Today ended 1-1, but we earned more than a tie. We controlled possession, set the tempo and kept the pressure on all game,” said Jaskaniec. “The team’s quality and work rate were undeniable.”

Zephyr FC also held its own defensively, holding Lexington SC scoreless in the first half to force a 0-0 draw at halftime. Lexington leads the league in goals scored this season, with 24 so far. 

Spokane defender Kelsey Oyler was crucial in the backline against Lexington, denying reigning player of the year Emina Ekić any offensive opportunities.  

Oyler reflected on Spokane being able to earn a draw on the road. 

“Today was a turning point in the right direction for this group,” said Oyler. “Going forward we need to keep that fight and finish the game off strong. Proud of this team.”

Zephyr FC stayed aggressive offensively in the second half, with Silano nearly scoring an opening half goal in the 48th minute, getting a shot at the top of the box off that barely missed too high.

Jaskaniec would have her moment in the 61st minute, scoring a header goal off a beautiful crosser by Silano into the box to give Spokane a 1-0 lead over Lexington SC. The goal was Jaskaniec’s second of the season and Zephyr FC’s first since October 30th. 

Playing from behind, Lexington upped the intensity offensively to level the match, earning its first corner kick in the 65th minute that was snatched by Spokane’s star goalkeeper Hope Hisey. 

Minutes later, Zephyr FC defender Reese Tappan did an excellent job sealing off Lexington SC forward Catherine Barry from getting a shot off inside the box in the 70th minute. Barry entered the match as the league’s second highest goal scorer this season with seven. 

With its unbeaten record on the line, Lexington SC Addie McCain earned a penalty kick in the 89th minute to equalize the match at 1-1. The goal was McCain’s seventh of the season. 

No club was able to score a last minute go-ahead goal, with the match ending as a draw. Spokane and Lexington have now played each other three times this season, with each match ending in a draw. 

Coach Lukic is optimistic as Spokane continues its six match road trip in two weeks.

“Today was a great opportunity to show that we can be a top team in this league,” said Lukic. “For our last 2025 match we will look to carry this momentum forward and end with a winning result.”

Following Saturday’s draw, Spokane Zephyr FC will play its final match in 2025 against Fort Lauderdale United FC on December 20th. The match is set to kickoff at 4:30 PM PT and can be streamed on Peacock. For tickets to the next home match on March 14th, visit Zephyr FC Tickets – USL Spokane

Brooklyn, NY – Spokane Zephyr FC fell 1-0 to Brooklyn FC on Saturday morning. A late strike would be enough to secure the win for Brooklyn. This loss marks the Zephyr’s fourth straight.

Zephyr FC Head Coach Nicole Lukic reflected on the match:

“This group keeps improving every match. The resilience, the belief, the execution of our game plan—that’s the success. If we keep competing like this, the results will follow. We’re trending in the right direction.”

The first opportunity would come early for Brooklyn FC in the 2nd minute. Rebecca Cooke showed off her crafty footwork as she weaved past a Spokane defender and put a clean shot on target. Another Spokane defender was able to put herself between the ball and the net to deflect the shot attempt.

In the 24th minute, a beautiful pass from Zephyr Midfielder Aryssa Mahrt managed to get behind Brooklyn’s back line. However, Brooklyn FC Goalkeeper Breanna Norris stepped up and was able to dive on the ball just before Zephyr Defender Ginger Fontenot was able to get a shot off.

Not long after in the 29th minute, Ginger Fontenot wouldn’t be beaten to the ball, as her strike found the back of the net. Unfortunately for the Zephyr, she was whistled offside, and the score was taken back.

“We always want to come out of a road game with a better result so naturally it’s challenging, especially since it felt like a game we dominated. But I continue to be really proud of this group. We’re nudging the needle closer and closer to who we want to be. There’s so much to take away from our play today and we’ll keep pursuing excellence every time we step on the field.” said Ginger Fontenot.

Zephyr’s intense pressure would remain as they nearly scored what would have been the opening goal in the 33rd minute. The opportunity started when Zephyr Forward Cameron Tucker lofted a ball toward the left side of the penalty area that appeared to be heading out of bounds. Defender Haley Thomas was able to make a touch on the ball as she fell to the ground to keep the play alive. The ball landed right in the path of Midfielder Emma Jaskaniec who ripped a powerful shot from close range toward the near post. Breanna Norris showcased her quick reaction time as she snagged the ball as it was traveling quickly above her head for the save.

The first half would see no score despite a myriad of opportunities from both sides. Spokane held possession for 58% of the half, and were applying intense pressure.

“The pressure is exactly what we want. Turning it into goals is the next evolution for us. It’s repetition, confidence, and continuing to put our front players in positions to be dangerous. We’re close, and the goals will come” said Coach Lukic.

This pressure would continue in the second half with the Zephyr’s best chance coming early in the half in the 51st minute. Cameron Tucker approached a loose ball well outside the penalty area on the right side of the field. Tucker quickly rifled a shot toward the back post. Catching Brooklyn off guard, her shot was able to get past the defense and past the goalkeeper. Her shot however, was just a bit too high as it ricocheted off the crossbar and away from the net.

Brooklyn’s Sofia Lewis scored the lone goal of the match in the 74th minute. Receiving a pass on the left side of the field with space, Lewis wound back her left foot and fired a shot that beat reigning Gainbridge Super League Goalkeeper of the Year Hope Hisey.

Spokane was unable to generate as many chances for the remainder of the game, and ultimately couldn’t find the equalizer.

Aryssa Mahrt shared similar optimism for the future successes for Spokane Zephyr in waiting:

“The result is frustrating, and we’re not going to pretend otherwise. We have to be better in critical moments and capitalize on our opportunities. But this team cares, we’re competing every day, and we believe in what we’re building.”

Following Saturday’s match, Spokane Zephyr FC will travel to Lexington for their second outing of their six game road stretch on Saturday, December 6th. The match is set to kickoff at 11 AM PT and can be streamed on Peacock. For tickets to the next home match, visit Zephyr FC Tickets – USL Spokane

Spokane, WA – Spokane Zephyr FC sought their second win against Dallas Trinity FC this season, but came up short following a 2-0 loss on their home pitch on Saturday night. 

Spokane wasted no time putting the pressure on, as Zephyr Defender Ginger Fontenot sent a 3rd minute cross into the penalty area, forcing Dallas Goalkeeper Rylee Foster into a full-extension save. Minutes later, Zephyr Forward Lena Silano pushed the ball into the box, but the Dallas back line recovered quickly to clear the threat. 

Head Coach Nicole Lukic commented on the team’s offensive output: “Tonight, we focused on creating opportunities and saw that translate in the match with 17 recorded shots.”

Zephyr FC sustained their attack with an 11th minute strike from Forward Cameron Tucker, followed by a pair of corner kicks and a shot on goal by Midfielder Sophie Braun.

Despite this early momentum for Spokane, Dallas broke the deadlock in the 29th minute. A pinpoint cross by Defender Samar Guidry found Forward Sealey Strawn on the other end, who placed her finish into the back of the net to give the visitors a 1-0 advantage.

Zephyr Forward Cameron Tucker emphasized that the best is yet to come for this group. “Not the result we wanted tonight, but we’ll keep growing, fighting, and staying focused on our goals,” Tucker said. “So grateful for Spokane and its unwavering support as we work to become the team we know we’re capable of being.”

Spokane nearly scored the tying goal in the 38th minute after a pass inside deflected off a Dallas defender and fell to Sophie Braun, whose redirected shot struck the crossbar and was cleared out of play. Spokane earned another opportunity late in the half through a corner kick, but Dallas held firm and took the 1–0 lead into halftime.

Spokane continued to search for the equalizer, generating multiple promising chances. Lena Silano created space just outside the penalty area in the 58th minute, firing a shot that skipped just wide of the right post. Dallas answered with an opportunity of their own just three minutes later, as Midfielder Camryn Lancaster connected on a header, but it narrowly missed left. 

After 15 minutes of back-and-forth action, Zephyr Midfielder Emma Jaskaniec delivered a promising cross to Defender Charley Boone, who possessed the ball cleanly but could not finish the chance. Spokane came close to finding the equalizer they had been looking for after an 82nd minute corner kick, but the ball deflected several times inside a crowded box before lifting over the crossbar.

“Tonight wasn’t the result we wanted, but the performance was what we’ve been working toward,” Jaskaniec said. “We outplayed them for long stretches and showed real composure on the ball.”

Spokane earned a final pair of chances with a free kick in the 87th minute and a corner in the 88th, but Dallas was able to disrupt both opportunities. Despite producing more than twice as many shot attempts as Dallas, Spokane was unable to find the equalizer before Trinity FC Forward Rhea Moore sealed the victory for Dallas with a second goal coming in extra time. 

“The team is doing a lot of background work right now that isn’t showing with our results quite yet,” Coach Lukic said. “The team and I believe in what we are doing and know we are right on the edge of flipping results in future matches.”Following Saturday’s match, Spokane Zephyr FC will begin a stretch of six straight road matches, starting with Brooklyn FC on Saturday, November 22nd. The match is set to kickoff at 10 AM PT and can be streamed on Peacock. For tickets to the next home match, visit Zephyr FC Tickets – USL Spokane

Spokane, WA – Zephyr FC continued their three game home stand with a 1-0 loss to Tampa Bay Sun FC in Spokane on Sunday afternoon. 

After Tampa Bay earned an early corner in the third minute, Spokane responded with pressure. In the sixth minute, Zephyr Forward Lena Silano broke free down the left side of the field, but sent her shot just wide of the goal post. Just two minutes later, Zephyr Defender Ginger Fontenot found space inside the penalty box, but her strike missed left as well.

Spokane continued the pressure, nearly capitalizing in the ninth minute when Tampa Bay Goalkeeper Sydney Schneider was forced out of position, leaving the net open. A quick defensive recovery led to a blocked shot and clearance, which earned Spokane an early corner. 

Zephyr Midfielder Sophie Braun came close to capitalizing one of Spokane’s many first half chances after a series of passes left her open just outside the penalty box, but her shot missed just left. Despite the offensive success, Spokane fell behind in the 19th minute as Defender Vivianne Bessette converted off of a corner that gave Tampa Bay the lead. 

“I’m proud of the fight we had, and obviously it’s a disappointing result, but I think it’s a good step forward and we’re excited for what’s to come,” Braun said. “Nicole has brought some good forward, aggressive thinking to the team.

Spokane continued to create opportunities, as a header from Lena Silano in the 26th minute and a pair of corners forced multiple saves. However, Tampa Bay would maintain their 1-0 lead heading into halftime.

To begin the second half, Tampa Bay earned another early corner in the 52nd minute, but Spokane quickly turned defense into offense. Zephyr Forward Cameron Tucker delivered a cross to Silano, whose shot narrowly missed the post. In the 58th minute, Forward Tori Waldeck broke free on a counterattack before play was stopped by a penalty.

Zephyr Head Coach Nicole Lukic reflected on the changes made throughout the match. “At halftime, we talked about Tampa Bay looking to overload those wide channels and making sure that we’re able to squeeze tighter,” Lukic said. “Once we were able to do that, we could really move up the field quickly and get to the goal.”

In the 60th minute, Zephyr Midfielder Sophie Braun threaded a pass to Ginger Fontenot, but her attempt missed the net by only inches. Midfielder Emma Jaskaniec then set up another quality chance in the 64th minute, connecting with Lena Silano in front of the goal and forcing a Tampa Bay sliding save. 

Silano was quick to mention the uptick in tempo in the second half that they hope to carry over. “Going into the second half, we had some momentum and were creating more opportunities,” Silano said. Next week, we plan to end this first half of our home season run with a bang.”

Shortly after, Zephyr FC earned a free kick that led to a scoring opportunity as Sydney Schneider was once again drawn out of position, but the ball was cleared before the attack could reach it. 

Spokane would look to make a push late, earning a corner in the 75th minute, and nearly found an equalizer in stoppage time. A rainbow pass into the penalty box by Sophie Braun set up one final opportunity, but the shot off the reception drifted just wide as bodies collided. At the final whistle, Spokane fell to Tampa Bay by a score of 1-0.

Despite the result, Zephyr FC looks to use this as a learning experience heading into the next phase of the season. “We’re learning new things as a group and sometimes that takes time,” Coach Lukic said. “I think you’ll see from the stats sheet that this is probably the most opportunities at goal that the team’s created in a while, so that’s really positive.”Following Sunday’s match, Spokane Zephyr FC will continue their homestand with a match against Dallas Trinity FC on Saturday, November 15th. The match is set to kickoff at 6 PM PT and can be streamed on Peacock. For tickets to the next home match, visit Zephyr FC Tickets – USL Spokane

Spokane, WA – On the eve of Halloween, Spokane Zephyr FC put up a spirited fight but couldn’t conjure a late comeback, falling 2–1 to Carolina Ascent FC on Thursday.

Carolina controlled possession early, earning a trio of corner kicks within the first ten minutes. Spokane Goalkeeper Hope Hisey denied a dangerous chance in the 17th minute to preserve the tie. Carolina continued to test Spokane, including a free kick in the 27th minute, and a 32nd-minute corner. 

Zephyr FC used the tough defensive challenge as an opportunity to grow as a team. “Although we didn’t get three points today, we were able to see moments of improvement in our team’s ability to build through the opponent,” said Zephyr FC Head Coach Nicole Lukic.

Spokane found their footing late in the first half, with a fast break in the 41st minute that ended in a missed connection and a Carolina goal kick. A tense moment came in the 44th minute, as another Ascent FC corner forced pressure in the penalty box before being cleared. 

The best scoring opportunity for Zephyr FC came just before the end of the first half. A counterattack generated by a perfectly placed pass over Carolina’s back line led to Spokane’s first shot attempt by Forward Tori Waldeck-Zierenberg, however the chance was saved by Goalkeeper Meagan Mcclelland. Despite Carolina recording 12 shot attempts, the first half ended scoreless.

”We learned some things about ourselves tonight and we’re looking forward to using this game to get better in the future,” Zierenberg said. Head Coach Lukic shared a similar message. “We got better in transition regain moments today,” Lukic said. “I’m proud of the group for showing their adaptability and chasing the result.”

Spokane opened the second half by generating a promising chance of their own. In the 49th minute, Zephyr FC Forward Ally Cook fired a shot on goal following a pass into the penalty box, forcing a Carolina save. 

Carolina Ascent FC responded with continued pressure, earning a corner kick in the 59th minute. This aggressiveness would eventually pay off just a minute later, as Carolina Forward Rylee Baisden found the back of the net to open the scoring. Baisden struck again in the 68th minute, capitalizing on a crowded box and a series of deflections that would double the Carolina lead. 

Pushing toward the final stretch, Spokane would not go quietly. In the 81st minute, Ally Cook converted a penalty kick to spark late momentum. Spokane Goalkeeper Hope Hisey would join the attack for one last corner kick, but Zephyr FC could not find the equalizer, as they would fall to Carolina 2-1. 

Despite the loss, Spokane Defender Haley Thomas emphasized the importance of building on their second half response. ”Really disappointing result but happy with the team’s response in the second half,” Thomas said. “Looking forward to reviewing this game and seeing where we can improve moving forward.”

Following Thursday’s match, Spokane Zephyr FC will continue their homestand with a match against Tampa Bay Sun FC on Sunday, November 9th. The match is set to kickoff at 12 PM PT and can be streamed on Peacock. For tickets to the next home match, visit Zephyr FC Tickets – USL Spokane

Washington, D.C. – Spokane Zephyr FC traveled to the nation’s capital on Sunday, but played to a 1-1 draw against DC Power FC. 

Zephyr FC began the match by earning an early corner in the 6th minute, but multiple deflections inside the penalty area ended with the ball rolling out for a goal kick. DC Forward Gianna Gourley, who leads Power FC in shot attempts, nearly put the hosts on the board first, sending a shot just wide of the left post after Spokane Goalkeeper Hope Hisey was drawn out on an aggressive challenge. 

Just three minutes later, DC Forward Jaydah Bedoya delivered a cross to Forward Loza Abera, whose attempt also missed left. Abera later found herself behind the Spokane back line, but Hisey was able to put herself in front of a one-on-one opportunity before Spokane’s defense recovered and cleared the danger.

DC maintained pressure midway through the half, including a 25th minute shot from Bedoya that Hisey was able to knock away, leading to consecutive DC corner kicks—both evaded by Spokane. Zephyr FC’s first shot came all the way in the 30th minute, as Forward Cameron Tucker’s attempt was denied by a sliding save from DC Power Goalkeeper Morgan Aquino. 

Hope Hisey came up big again just before halftime, diving to stop a powerful DC attempt in the 43rd minute. The league leader in both clean sheets (5) and saves (33) helped keep the match scoreless at the break. 

Hisey reflected on the team’s effort, saying, “We’re disappointed to not walk away with three points but are proud of the group’s effort to get a point on the road. We now have time to reflect and go again.”

In just her second match as the Zephyr FC Head Coach, Nicole Lukic implemented some new defensive strategies to a back line that had recorded five consecutive clean sheets. “The team’s super strength is defending low in front of our own goal,” Lukic said. “We challenged our group to defend differently today and did well trying something new.”

The second half of play opened much like the first, with Spokane earning an early corner in the 49th minute. The turning point came moments later, when Zephyr FC was awarded a penalty kick following a foul inside the box. Forward Ally Cook converted from the spot for her third goal of the season, giving Spokane a 1-0 lead.

Cook spoke about the team’s mindset following the draw. “It always hurts to give up a lead so late in the game, but we gave our best effort as a collective,” Cook said. “We are growing as a group, and only going to let this fuel us for our next game.”

DC ramped up the pressure as the second half rolled on, earning three consecutive corner kicks starting in the 65th minute. Gourley nearly capitalized on a deflection inside for DC Power, but it was quickly cleared. Zephyr Midfielder Emma Jaskaniec came close to doubling the lead in the 74th with a strike that grazed just over the crossbar. 

DC Power pressed late, with another near miss from Midfielder Katrina Guillo, but Spokane secured back-to-back saves in the 87th and 89th. This aggressiveness paid off as they finally found an equalizer deep into stoppage time. Gianna Gourley netted her team-leading fourth goal of the season, bringing the match level. As the final whistle blew, Zephyr FC would settle for a 1-1 draw. 

Despite giving up a late lead, Head Coach Lukic is optimistic moving forward. “While we had moments of discomfort, we worked through that and are leaving D.C. with more confidence defending higher up the field,” said Lukic. “We are disappointed to not walk away with three points, but we’ll take one and the lessons that come with it.”Following Sunday’s draw, Spokane Zephyr FC will travel back to Spokane for a match against Carolina Ascent FC on Thursday, October 30th. The match is set to kickoff at 6 PM PT and can be streamed on Peacock. For tickets to Zephyr’s next home match on October 30th, visit Zephyr FC Tickets – USL Spokane

SPOKANE, WA – Spokane Zephyr FC secured a 2-0 win over Dallas Trinity FC Sunday evening. This match was the first for new Spokane Zephyr FC Head Coach, Nicole Lukic.

Coach Lukic shared her thoughts on her first Zephyr match:

“With me being only three training sessions in, I’m just really proud that we were able to execute the things we’ve worked on this far and that we were able to get three points. You really can’t ask for more in your first couple of days on the job.”

“The culture of this team is just amazing, so it was easy to open up our club to her.” stated midfielder Aryssa Mahrt. “With it being our first week with a new coach and a lot of new ideas being brought in, the team was trying to implement all of those the best we could and I think we were able to find a good rhythm.”

Dallas Trinity FC would be the first team to present a threatening attack in the 15th minute with two shot attempts in quick succession; one saved by Zephyr Goalkeeper Hope Hisey, and the other deflected by a Zephyr defender.

In the 21st minute, Spokane created a chance of their own. However, it did not lead to a shot on goal as a pass ahead was just past the outstretched foot of Zephyr Forward Tori Waldeck-Zierenberg.

Hope Hisey recorded her second of six saves in the 39th minute. A close range shot from the right side of the penalty area was shot with great power toward the near post where Hisey was able to deflect the attempt. Shortly after, Hisey’s save in the 47th minute became a record-breaking save as she became the first goalkeeper in Gainbridge Super League history to record 100 saves.

The first score of the match came in the 60th minute. A well placed pass found Tori Waldeck-Zierenberg with space on the right side of the penalty area. Her shot was deflected by a Trinity FC defender, but the ball was still able to find the back of the net for the opening score.

“Two things that stood out tonight were our collective defense and our grit as a team. Because of those things, we were resilient on both sides of the ball” said Waldeck-Zierenberg.

Not long after, in the 67th minute, the lead was doubled with a Trinity FC own goal. Zephyr FC Forward Cameron Tucker crossed the ball into the penalty area, where it deflected off a Dallas defender and past the goalkeeper.

One of Dallas’ best chances came in the 74th minute when Dallas Forward Rhea Moore fired a shot from the left side of the net toward the near post. Hope Hisey was able to deflect the ball away from the net to prevent the goal.

This shutout marks Hope Hisey’s fifth clean sheet of the season, a number that leads the Gainsbridge Super League stats (a USL property). 

“We had tons of energy coming out of the fans today, which is really appreciated—we’re going to need them as our “12th woman” on the field, if you will.” Head Coach Lukic stated. “More than anything right now, this time is about building relationships and getting to know the players, the staff, and the community that make up this team.”

Following Sunday’s win, Spokane Zephyr FC will travel for a road match against DC Power FC on October 19th. The match is set to kickoff at 11 AM PT and can be streamed on Peacock. For tickets to Zephyr’s next home match on October 30th, visit Zephyr FC Tickets – USL Spokane

SPOKANE, Wash. — October 7, 2025 – Aequus Sports, LLC. announced Nicole Lukic as Head Coach of Spokane Zephyr FC, bringing her proven record of leadership and success to Spokane, WA and the Gainbridge Super League (a United Soccer League property).  

Lukic joins Spokane Zephyr FC from U.S. Soccer, where she served as Director of Talent Identification for the Youth National Teams, working closely with Emma Hayes and the U.S. Women’s Youth National Team staff to find and develop the country’s top young talent. 

Prior to U.S. Soccer, Lukic served as the inaugural Sporting Director and Head Coach of Minnesota Aurora FC, where she led the club to two undefeated regular seasons and consecutive playoff appearances. Under her leadership, the Aurora quickly established itself as one of the premier organizations in women’s soccer. Lukic was named USL W Coach of the Year in 2022 and was a 2024 Sports Business Journal 40 under 40 honoree for her time with Aurora.  

“We are thrilled to welcome Nicole Lukic to Spokane Zephyr FC,” said Katie Harnetiaux, President and Co-founder. “At Aequus Sports, elevating women isn’t just part of our mission—it’s who we are. From the pitch to the front office, we are intentional about creating pathways for women to lead, compete, and succeed. Hiring Nicole to lead Zephyr FC is both a reflection of that commitment and a wise investment in the future of our club, our league, and the next generation of athletes.” 

Lukic expressed her excitement to join the Spokane community and lead the team into the heart of its second season: 

“I am honored to be named the Head Coach of Spokane Zephyr FC. The opportunity to guide this team in a community that so deeply supports the game is truly special. I look forward to building on the foundation already in place and continuing to grow a team that Spokane will be proud of—one that competes with passion, excellence, and integrity.” 

Zephyr FC also extended its gratitude to Interim Head Coach and Technical Director Josh McAllister for his leadership during the club’s transition. 

“We are thankful for Josh’s dedication, commitment, and steady guidance during this important phase for our club,” added Harnetiaux. “His contributions have been invaluable in preparing Zephyr for Nicole’s arrival.” 

Spokane Zephyr FC is currently tied for second place with a 2-2-4 record competing in its second season in the Gainbridge Super League.

SPOKANE, Wash. – Zephyr FC played Lexington SC to a 0-0 draw on Saturday at ONE Spokane Stadium, marking the second draw between the two clubs this season. 

Zephyr FC’s interim head coach Josh McAllister spoke on what worked defensively on Saturday. 

“We focused on keeping them wide and out of central areas, which the girls did very well,” said McAllister. “We possessed the ball the best we have all season, which also helped us.” 

The match started off slowly, with no shots on target taken in the first 10 minutes. Zephyr FC saw its first opportunity in the 12th minute, with midfielder Aryssa Mahrt getting a shot inside the box that bounced right to Lexington goalkeeper Kat Asman. 

Spokane had another good chance in the 26th minute, with forward Tori Zierenberg firing a shot inside the box that missed wide right. Minutes later, Lexington SC midfielder Emina Ekić got a run inside the box and took a shot that was deflected one-handedly by Spokane goalkeeper Hope Hisey. 

Hisey reflected on the team’s performance on Saturday. 

“I’m very proud of the continued defensive effort from the entire team. It’s been critical in culminating much needed points,” said Hisey. 

Lexington SC came out in the second half aggressive offensively, getting multiple shots on goal in the first few minutes. Ekić, the reigning Super League player of the year, got herself open inside the box in the 50th minute, with Spokane defender Reese Tappan making a great defensive play to deflect a potential shot. 

Tappan spoke on the defensive effort by Spokane following the match. 

“Really proud of the team’s defensive effort for all 90 minutes. [It] felt like a dominant performance by us that hopefully next week will translate to a win,” said Tappan. “Excited to be at home again next week and play in front of our amazing fans.” 

In the 52nd minute, Lexington defender Hannah Sharts had a shot near the goal that Hisey saved off a diving attempt. Hisey had five saves against Lexington and has a league-leading 27 this season. 

Spokane had its best scoring chance of the second half in the 70th minute, with forward Ally Cook getting a shot off towards the right side of goal that was quickly deflected by Asman. 

This match was the second scoreless draw between Spokane and Lexington this season, with the two clubs recently playing each other to a shutout last month in Lexington, Kentucky. Zephyr FC will play Lexington SC again on December 6th at Lexington SC Stadium.  

Coach McAllister reflected on his club’s performance against a talented Lexington team that is currently second in Gainbridge Super League standings. 

“The team is growing every single game. Lexington is the most talented team in this league, so it’s not an easy feat to score on them,” said McAllister. “We created good opportunities, which we’ll need to take advantage of to beat teams of their level.” Following Saturday’s draw, Spokane Zephyr FC will host Dallas Trinity FC on October 12th. The match is set to kickoff at 4 PM PT and can be streamed on Peacock. For tickets to the match, visit Zephyr FC Tickets – USL Spokane

Charlotte, NC – Zephyr FC defeated Carolina Ascent FC 1-0 on the road on Wednesday to improve its winning streak to two matches. 

Spokane interim head coach Josh McAllister spoke on club’s performance following the match. 

“We are a young team and with more games, we are gaining more experience,” said McAllister. “We saw a lot of top performances from players who haven’t played a lot this year.” 

Both clubs created good chances offensively in the first half, with Spokane and Carolina each attempting five shots in the first 45 minutes. One of Carolina’s best chances at a goal came in the 21st minute, with forward Maddie Mercado being awarded a penalty kick that missed the net and ricocheted off the goalpost. 

Zephyr FC forward Tori Zierenburg scored the match’s first goal in the 35th minute to give Spokane a 1-0 lead into halftime. Zierenburg received a perfect through ball from Cam Tucker and tapped in the pass from outside the box and into the net. Zierenburg’s goal was her first of the season and professional career. 

Zierenburg spoke on the win following the match. 

“So proud of the team for getting three points on the road,” said Zierenburg. “It took every single player tonight for the win. We battled and stuck to playing our way.”

Carolina Ascent FC came out in the second half searching for its first goal of the match, with Mercado getting an open shot inside the box off an accurate pass from Brianna Martinez, with Mercado putting too much power on the shot and sailing it over the goalpost. 

Carolina’s best chance at a second half equalizer came in the 62nd minute, with Martinez launching a shot just outside the box that Zephyr FC goalkeeper Hope Hisey read perfectly and deflecting the ball away from goal. Hisey currently leads all goalkeepers in saves with 21 this season. 

Zephyr FC had a golden opportunity at a second goal in the 64th minute, with Shea Collins finding herself wide open inside the box with a one on one opportunity against Carolina goalkeeper Meagan McClelland, with Collins losing her footing during her shot attempt. 

Spokane defender Kelsey Oyler spoke on the club’s resilience following the match. 

“So proud of this team and the fight we showed tonight. A win and a shutout to reward that fight,” said Oyler. “Super excited to be back home next week and show who we are again.” 

Spokane played tough defense throughout the match to hold Carolina scoreless for the first time this season. McAllister spoke on his club’s recent defensive successes. 

“Our team has shown the last three matches that we are hard to break down. The team put in a massive shift without the ball to keep Carolina at bay,” said McAllister. 

Zephyr FC improved to 2-2-3 after Wednesday’s win and jumped to second place in Gainbridge Super League standings. Carolina Ascent FC is now 0-1-3 and sits in eighth place in the league. Following Wednesday’s win, Spokane Zephyr FC will return home for a match against Lexington SC on October 4th. The match is set to kickoff at 6 PM PT and can be streamed on Peacock. For tickets to the match, visit Zephyr FC Tickets – USL Spokane