Audi Field | Washington, D.C. — May 6, 2026
The Sporting JAX women’s team delivered a statement result on Wednesday night, defeating DC Power FC 1-0 on the road in the second-to-last match of their inaugural season, clinching a home playoff match in the process.
DeSmit Delivers Again
Sporting JAX found its breakthrough in the 33rd minute, continuing a season-long trend of timely attacking moments. Sophia Boman worked the ball into a dangerous area, setting up Baylee DeSmit, who made no mistake in front of goal.
DeSmit’s strike marked her 12th of the season, further cementing her role as one of the league’s most consistent offensive threats.
The early lead gave Sporting JAX control, allowing them to dictate the pace and remain composed in a high-stakes environment against a DC side pushing to keep its playoff hopes alive.
Defensive Focus Pays Off
With everything on the line, Sporting JAX leaned into a disciplined defensive performance to protect the lead.
Head Coach Stacey Balaam emphasized the approach postmatch: “There was a lot at stake, [DC] was pushing for a playoff spot, so we had to be really focused defensively … we focused on how to shut them out and we did that.”
That focus showed throughout the match, as the back line stayed organized and compact, limiting DC’s opportunities in dangerous areas.
Gerstenberg Steps Up
Behind that defensive unit was goalkeeper Jamie Gerstenberg, making her first start since September, and making it count.
Gerstenberg came up with two key saves to preserve the clean sheet, stepping into the moment with confidence.
“Being back out there was the best feeling ever,” Gerstenberg said.
Her presence proved pivotal late, as Sporting JAX held firm to secure all three points and the shutout victory.
Midfielder Sophia Boman echoed the team’s collective effort: “Super proud, proud of the team and proud of Jamie for stepping up. We left it all out there and got the result we wanted.”
History Secured
With the final whistle, Sporting JAX not only secured the win, but also a place in the record books.
The result officially clinches a home playoff match in the first round of the Gainbridge Super League Playoffs, a remarkable milestone in the club’s inaugural season.
“It’s huge for us, for the club, for ownership, for everybody that works within the club, huge for the fans, we know that it’s a celebration together,” Balaam said.
Gerstenberg added: “It’s huge! Playing at home is always the best feeling, knowing we clinched a home [game] is awesome.”
Sporting JAX becomes the first expansion team in league history to both reach the postseason and secure home-field advantage in the opening round, another defining moment in a historic campaign.
Looking Ahead
Sporting JAX will close out the regular season on the road against Carolina Ascent on May 16, with positioning at the top of the table still in focus.
With momentum building and a home playoff match secured, the stage is set for a postseason run, backed by a city ready to show up loud.
