Icelandic native
Gunnhildur Jonsdottir
made
Utah Royals FC
history on Saturday night after scoring the club’s inaugural goal in the third minute of the NWSL season opener. The right-footed volley was not only the first goal of the match, but won the NWSL’s Goal of the Week.
Yet this goal is more than just a pretty volley—rather, there are subtle, even unseen details about this shot that say a lot of about URFC. Let’s break it down.
- The perfect cross
Utah’s first goal would never have happened without the technical skill and precise timing of FW
Diana Matheson
, who receives the ball on the far side of the attacking third, with two purple jerseys closing in the space. Matheson’s firm touch back to space grants her a split-second window to launch the ball into Orlando’s box. The ball sailed with a slight bend away from GK Ashlyn Harris, right to the foot of MF
Gunny Jondsottir
, streaking towards goal.
What it says about URFC
Matheson’s cross exemplifies a possession style of play that is iconic to a Laura Harvey coached team. We can predict that Harvey will encourage a possession minded squad, whose first priority is to retain a hold of the ball. Her ability to receive the ball — already aware of the pressure — and move into space, demonstrates her technical ability to create opportunities in the attack.
2. The Game-Changing Run
If you watch the goal from a full-field camera angle, you’ll notice that Gunny slows her run as Matheson receives the ball. Orlando MF Dani Weatherholt, seeing that her mark has slowed, turns her attention to Matheson on the far side of the field with the ball. At the same moment that Weatherholt turns her head, Jondsottir darts behind, taking the first steps towards her game-changing goal. Gunny splits through the two center backs, finding herself shooting on an open frame.
What is says about URFC
While there is no doubt of Gunny’s athleticism and strength, her delayed run demonstrates a high soccer IQ and tactical awareness. Gunny’s runs throughout the remainder of the match varied at different speeds, making her play unpredictable for the Pride. Other midfielders like
Desiree Scott,
and
Katie Bowen,
offered similar movement, making play dangerous in the center of the pitch.
3. It’s All About the Work
“You can have a talented team, but if you aren’t willing to work, then it means nothing,” said Jonsdottir, moments after being asked her thoughts on the match. And very few know that motto better than Gunny — the energizer bunny of URFC. While placing a laced volley into the back of the net requires hours of skill and practice, that goal was a direct result of Gunny’s immense work-ethic.
What is says about URFC
Jonsdottir’s goal was a spark for the group. Her goal demonstrates the team’s willingness to work hard, dive for balls, get on the ground, and find the back of the net — above all. Rain or shine, URFC has shown a deep desire to win and compete in every drill, practice, and game. If URFC’s talent doesn't win you over, then their work-ethic will.
