The Super Falcons forward scored a historic hat-trick, leading the Washington Spirit to a decisive 4-0 victory over Houston Dash on Sunday. The win gave the Spirits a playoff position in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
Gift Monday achieved the fastest hat-trick from kickoff in NWSL history, netting her third goal at just 35 minutes and 52 seconds. She is now the second player in Washington Spirit history to score a league hat-trick.
The match was held at Audi Field under sunny skies, with thousands of fans witnessing the Spirit’s win. The scoring opened in the 18th minute when Trinity Rodman assisted Monday, who slipped past Houston goalkeeper Abby Smith to score from a tight angle.
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Just minutes later, a corner kick led to Monday’s second goal, tapping in a rebound after Smith deflected her initial header.
She completed her hat-trick in the 36th minute, after another precise cross from Rodman. This performance capped an impressive first half.
The Spirit’s victory, aside reinforcing their playoff ambitions, also extended their unbeaten run to ten matches, marking a new club record. The team will next face Gotham FC in the Concacaf W Champions Cup before a home game against San Diego Wave FC on October 5.
Tags: Gift Monday, Super Falcons, #SoarSuperFalcons, National Women’s Soccer League, NWSL, #NWSL, Washington Spirit, San Diego Wave FC, Gotham FC, Trinity Rodman, Abby Smith, Houston Dash, historic hat-trick.
