Boston Legacy FC claimed a dramatic 2-1 National Women’s Soccer League victory over Utah Royals on Friday night, with Aleigh Gambone’s 86th-minute header settling a fiercely contested fixture at America First Field.
In front of 8,112 supporters in Sandy, Boston made the sharper start and struck inside 10 minutes. Aïssata Traoré opened the scoring in the 10th minute, giving the visitors an early reward for their positive approach.
Utah responded well rather than allowing the match to drift away. Kiana Palacios levelled in the 17th minute, restoring parity and sending the sides into half-time locked at 1-1. The Royals had shown their resilience, but Boston retained an edge in the attacking numbers across the 90 minutes.
The visitors finished with 51.7 percent possession, 14 shots and seven efforts on target, compared with Utah’s nine shots and three on target. Boston also created 12 shot assists, illustrating the sustained pressure they were able to build in key phases of the second half.
With the match appearing to be heading for a draw, Gambone provided the decisive moment. The substitute rose to head home in the 86th minute, delivering Boston’s second goal and a valuable three points on the road.
Utah pushed for a late response but could not find a second equaliser. Annie Karich was booked for the Royals in the 75th minute, while Boston substitute Paige Cronin saw yellow in the 88th minute as the visitors managed the closing stages.
The result leaves Utah with a 12-3-8 overall record, while Boston move to 6-5-12. The Royals next host Houston Dash on Saturday, September 12, while Boston Legacy FC face Washington Spirit on Sunday, September 13.
Goals
- Boston Legacy FC: Aïssata Traoré, 10′
- Utah Royals: Kiana Palacios, 17′
- Boston Legacy FC: Aleigh Gambone, 86′
