Washington Spirit earn first win of season

Substitute Gift Monday scores late goal to defeat Bay FC

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:03am

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The Washington Spirit earned their first victory of the 2026 season, defeating Bay FC 2-0 on Sunday in San Jose, California. Gift Monday, who entered the game as a late substitute, scored just two minutes after coming on to seal the win for the Spirit.

Why it matters

The Spirit had struggled to find their form early in the season, making this win an important boost for the team as they look to turn their season around. Bay FC, meanwhile, will be disappointed to have lost at home and will need to regroup quickly.

The details

Gift Monday came on as a substitute in the 88th minute and scored the Spirit's second goal just two minutes later to secure the 2-0 victory over Bay FC. The Spirit's first goal was scored earlier in the match by a different player.

  • The match took place on Sunday, April 6, 2026 in San Jose, California.
  • Gift Monday scored the Spirit's second goal in the 90th minute of the match.

The players

Gift Monday

A substitute player for the Washington Spirit who scored the team's second goal in the 90th minute to seal the victory.

Washington Spirit

The professional women's soccer team that earned their first win of the 2026 season with the 2-0 victory over Bay FC.

Bay FC

The professional women's soccer team that lost 2-0 at home to the Washington Spirit.

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The takeaway

This win is an important step for the Washington Spirit as they look to build momentum and climb the standings after a slow start to the season. The late goal by substitute Gift Monday provided a much-needed boost and will give the team confidence going forward.