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Ashlyn Harris becomes all-time NWSL save leader with 1-0 win over Gotham

Ashlyn Harris gives a thumbs up after breaking the NWSL save record against NJ/NY Gotham on August 29, 2001 at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ

HARRISON, NJ – Orlando Pride (6-5-6, 24 points) earned three points against NJ/NY Gotham FC (5-5-6, 21 points) defeating the hosts 1-0 at Red Bull Arena. The shut out was also included a historic save for Orlando Goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris against Carli Lloyd to secure the all-time saves leader for the NWSL.

Harris’ 469th save, surpassed Nicole Barnhart who previously held the record at 468 saves. 

After a scoreless first half, Orlando scored the game’s only goal when Erika Tymrak scored off a long range shot for her first goal as a member of the Orlando Pride. Sydney Leroux provided the assist on what would be the eventual game-winner, earning her first assist of the season. 

Erika Tymrak Scored the matches only goal against NJ/NY Gotham at Red Bulls Arena in Harrison, NJ on August 29, 2021

Harris recorded three saves in the shutout, breaking the NWSL’s all-time regular season saves record. Her third and final save, a point-blank stop on Carli Lloyd, gave Harris the record.

“I feel really good about that one because I think it was a huge step forward for us in mentality and that was really important.” Said Orlando Interim Head Coach Becky Burleigh. “It was really important for us to be able to get a lead and hold it, especially on the road…[Ashlyn Harris] just drives standards in a very positive way in terms of she’s a competitor, she’s a winner and that rubs off on everyone. Her willingness to put herself out there in terms of demonstrating what she is willing to do to win makes everybody else play a little bit harder.”

Since her arrival with Orlando City in their inaugural season Harris has been a strong leader in the locker room of the Pride. She refused to settle for less than the absolute bests and would not hesitate to let them know when they were coming up short.

Her hard work has been a part of the solid foundation of this team since she has manned Orlando’s goal, and has been a key part of the teams increase in quality play.

The Orlando
The Orlando Pride celebrate a 1-0 victory over NJ/NY Gotham at Red Bulls Arena in Harrison, NJ on August 29, 2021

The Pride have scored in 17 consecutive regular season away matches, the longest such streak in NWSL history. This win stretches Orlando’s winning streak against Gotham to five.

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