With the opportunity to make history with a win, Racing Louisville FC head coach Bev Yanez has made one change to her starting lineup, bringing Kayla Fischer into the starting XI at center forward.
Sarah Weber, who has scored twice and registered one assist in her last five games, will move to the bench to make way for Fischer. A 25-year-old third-year pro, Fischer has scored three goals and registered two assists this season, both career highs.
Aside from that, Yanez will roll with the same group that started the club’s 2-2 draw at Gotham FC two weeks ago.
Emma Sears, fresh off a hat trick with the United States Women’s National Team, will start on the right of Fischer, with rookie Ella Hase on the left. Sears’ 10 goals this season are a Racing Louisville single-season record, and she is two goals from Savannah DeMelo’s all-time club record.
In the midfield, rookie Katie O’Kane will play in an attacking position, with Brazilian international Ary Borges and Taylor Flint occupying deeper positions. Borges started during the most recent international window with Brazil, and Flint is compiling a Best XI-quality season.
In defense, Janine Sonis will play at left back with Lauren Milliet at right. Captain Arin Wright will pair with Ellie Jean at center back.
They will play in front of Jordyn Bloomer, who will be making her 20th career NWSL start Sunday — all coming this season. The breakout star ranks third in the NWSL with 79 saves.
On the bench, Courtney Petersen, Marisa DiGrande and Bethany Balcer provide experience, along with the youth of the rookie Weber. Allie Geroge, Maddie Pokorny, Avery Kalitta and goalkeeper Madison White would be making their season debuts if they see the field.
A win guarantees Louisville its first-ever playoff berth, though Racing could clinch if the North Carolina Courage fail to win against Gotham FC on Sunday. Both games will begin at 5 p.m. ET.
Team Sheet vs. Bay FC
24 – Jordyn Bloomer
16 – Janine Sonis
3 – Arin Wright (c)
5 – Ellie Jean
2 – Lauren Milliet
26 – Taylor Flint
8 – Ary Borges
20 – Katie O’Kane
6 – Ella Hase
13 – Emma Sears
9 – Kayla Fischer
Available substitutes: 77 – Madison White; 11 – Courtney Petersen, 12 – Allie George, 14 – Marisa DiGrande, 17 – Maddie Pokorny, 32 – Avery Kalitta, 42 – Sarah Weber, 88 – Bethany Balcer
