LEXINGTON, KY (June 24th, 2025) – The KHFC Cincinnati Ladies sustained success and came out on top 4-2 against Lexington SC.
The first half started right away when Kings Hammer FC’s #12 Kennedy Clark hit the back of the net in the first minute. In the 10th minute, Abby Townsend scored another goal, giving KHFC a 2-0 lead. In the 14th minute, KHFC’s Lilly Yordy shot on target, but Lexington SC’s keeper saved it. Two minutes later, Lexington SC’s Bailey Fischer was granted a corner kick. To continue the KHFC momentum, in the 21st minute, Faith Broering snuck one past the keeper. In the 27th minute, Kylee Simmons secured another goal, giving KHFC an even bigger lead of 4-0. 10 minutes later, Lexington SC’s #14 Elizabeth Sexton was issued a yellow card. Ending the first half, KHFC’s Yordy corner kicked. 4 minutes of stoppage time were added to the first half.
The second half started with key substitutions from KHFC. Entering the match were goalkeeper Lexi Grundler, Lauren Flax, Avery May, and exiting the match were goalkeeper Maria Galley, Lilly Yordy, and Ava Arengo. Lexington SC had substitutions as well, bringing Isabella Winton and Anna Bulzhett into the match and taking out Juliet Strange and Avrea Del Carmen. 10 minutes after, KHFC brought Rylie Niemeyer into the match and took out Abby Townsend.
In the 57th minute, KHFC’s Goalkeeper, Lexi Grundle, had an amazing save. In the 60th minute, Bailey Fischer scored Lexington SC’s first goal of the match. The minute following, Kings Hammer FC, made key substitutions bringing in Avery Pleiman and Aliana Weibel and removing Mckenzie Carle and Faith Broering. In the 65th minute, Lexington SC’s Lauren Gogal was granted a penalty kick and scored, making the game 2-4.
Following the goal, Lexington SC brought #13 into the match, taking #16 out. In the 68th minute, KHFC brought Saddie Yapp into the match and took out Kennedy Clark, making it the last substitution of the game. Ending the game, in the 82nd minute, Lexington SC’s #18 hit the back of the net. In the 85th minute, Lexington SC’s Maci Barlow was granted a corner kick. 5 minutes of stoppage time were added to the match but no one else would score. The game ended in a 2-4, another win for KHFC Cincinnati.
Following the win, the USL W League officially announced that the ladies had clinched a spot at the USL W League Playoffs this year. This is a monumental moment as it will be the first time the KHFC Cincinnati Ladies will attend the Playoffs in the history of the club. After the match, KHFC Cincinnati’s Head Coach, Bronson Gamble, reflected on what clinching a playoff spot means to KHFC.
“It shows all the work and dedication the players and staff put in to deliver not only the best environment in the Midwest, but one of the best environments in the country. We pride ourselves in not only performing at an extremely high level, but making sure player thrive and grow for their next endeavor, whether that be going professional or back to their college.”
He added that he will be mentally and physically preparing the KHFC going into the playoffs.
“Once we knew we clinched and had these few games left, our motto has been to stay sharp, be fresh, and build confidence. Our success has come from the quality and depth of players who have dressed this season for Kings Hammer. 31 players have helped us in matches to prepare for playoffs, the youngest being a 15-year-old up to a seasoned 25-year-old.”
Going into the playoffs, he wants the KHFC ladies to tighten up on some things.
“We want to continue to be consistent closing out games in a win or go home scenario like the playoffs, you can’t leave goals on the table, and you can’t take moments for granted. We are excited to embark on this, but I’m confident in our leadership and in our experience to make some noise. “
He added,
“I want to thank everybody for coming out and celebrating this group all season. Make sure you follow along as we make history. Go Kings Hammer!”
Before the playoffs, fans and families can support the Kings Hammer FC Cincinnati Ladies at their final regular season match at Lexington SC again this Saturday, June 28th at 7 pm.
