Both opponents in the final of this tourney achived their spots in similar fashion, late goals for NC Courage and Lyon now have their date with destiny on Sunday in Wake Med Park at 7:30 broadcasted by ESPN2. This is the much anticipated rematch of the title game from last year, won by the Courage. A weather delay of 73 minutes, then 2 goals in the last 15 minutes added to the drama as the Courage saw McKenzie Meehan, a 2nd half sub, send home a corner by Heather O'Reilly for her first pro goal. In the 92' World Cup Winner, Jessica McDonald assisted by Jaelene Hinkle, outpaced her defender and slotted it home with a nutmeg on the 'keeper. The game was the first for the returning World Cup winning members of the USWNT, only 1 did not see the field, Abby Dahlkemper. This is a scene Jessica repeats often in the NWSL, with her leading the league in game winning goals. As for their adversary, Man City also benefitted from a stoppage time goal with defender Wendie Renard nodding home the sole goal in what was the opening game of the ICC in the 91'. Given a few local players and all the Irish names and a locally based coach we are fully expecting the Courage to take the title, yes homerism is alive and well. The game kicked off with the Courage high pressing the visitors with both Kristen Hamilton and Brazil WNT member Debhina having their goes at goal saved by Ellie Roebuck, at the 17' mark, Debhina had another chance turned away by the defense. 42' in and Georgia Stanway had some room and went on goal, she beat Katelyn Rowland in close, it was one of the few chances for City and they took a 1-0 lead despite giving up 15 shots to that point. . Ten minutes into the 2nd stanza, Crystal Dunn of the USWNT and Rockville Centre sent a shot to the corner, tipped wide by Roebuck, that blast was goal bound .
Jessica McDonald, had the GWG in the ICC.