FORT LAUDERDALE UNITED BATTLES BROOKLYN FC TO A DRAW

By Litzy Grijalba

After nearly seven weeks away from home, Fort Lauderdale United FC returned to Beyond Bancard Field Nov. 1 and delivered an energetic performance, battling Brooklyn FC to a 1-1 draw in Super League play.

The result moved Fort Lauderdale’s record to 3-1-4 (13 points), while Brooklyn sits at 1-4-5 (8 points). The draw marked Lauderdale’s fourth draw of the 2025–26 season, extending their streak of earning points in all but one of their eight matches this season.

Despite the frustration of not converting into a win, the home side’s return offered plenty of positives. Midfielder Kelli Van Treeck once again showcased her scoring instincts, marking her third goal of the season, the most among league midfielders,

while several teammates delivered strong individual displays in what became a tightly contested, physical matchup.

The match started with an early setback for Fort Lauderdale, as Brooklyn FC struck in just the seventh minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to take a quick 1-0 lead. Goalkeeper Haley Craig, making her first start of the season in place of red card starter Bella Hara, responded with confidence. She produced a crucial near-post save in the

ninth minute that prevented the deficit from growing and steadied the team's rhythm.

As the first half progressed, Fort Lauderdale’s midfield began asserting control. The trio of Lily Nabet, Kat González, and Stella Nyamekye connected on a series of short passes that repeatedly broke Brooklyn’s defensive shape. In the 22nd minute, Nabet’s goal-bound shot was cleared off the line after an impressive build-up through the center.

"Sh'nia Gordon maintaining ball possession" Photo Credit to Maison Bracey

Team captain Sh’nia Gordon caused problems for Brooklyn’s back line throughout the opening half with her speed and control on the right wing, creating two dangerous runs in the 28th and 35th minutes. The breakthrough finally came in the 39th minute when Fort Lauderdale’s set-piece creativity paid off. Nyamekye delivered a free kick from the left side into the penalty area. Nabet cleverly let the ball roll through her legs,

deceiving Brooklyn’s defenders and leaving Van Treeck free to slide and kick the ball into the net for the tie.

Head coach, Ali Rodgers, made a tactical switch at the break, bringing on forward Jasmine Hamid for González to add more attacking energy. The adjustment paid off early, as Fort Lauderdale generated several promising chances through the combination play of Hamid and Nyamekye.

Tension peaked in stoppage time when defender Taylor Smith received her second red card of the season for a late challenge, leaving Fort Lauderdale to finish the match with a player down. Brooklyn pushed forward in the final moments, but Craig and the United back line held firm to secure the draw.

"Fort Lauderdale United FC vs Brooklyn FC" Photo Credit to Maison Bracey

Though the single point was less than what the team aimed for, Fort Lauderdale extended its strong run of form and maintained its position near the upper half of the standings. Fort Lauderdale has now earned points in seven of eight matches; a sign of consistency that continues to build confidence within the squad.

Nov. 1 marked Fort Lauderdale’s first home appearance in 49 days, and the return was met with enthusiasm from fans who packed Beyond Bancard Field.

Lauderdale FC (4-1-4, 16 PTS) won its matchup against Carolina Ascent FC (3-3-4, 13 PTS) on Nov. 8 in a thrilling 1-1 battle at American Legion Memorial Stadium. The hard-fought road result highlighted the team’s continued balance on both ends of the pitch.

For all games, fans can purchase tickets and season passes at FT-LUnited.com, where the club recently introduced the new Juniors Season Ticket, an affordable option designed to bring more families into the matchday experience.

"Fort Lauderdale United FC moves ball up the pitch" Photo Credit to Maison Bracey

For fans unable to attend in person, all Fort Lauderdale United FC matches can be streamed live on Peacock and YouTube, offering full match coverage for supporters both local and nationwide.

Fort Lauderdale’s performance against Brooklyn demonstrated a team that continues to evolve and compete with purpose. The club showed resilience in the face

of early setbacks, and a growing sense of unity across all areas of the pitch. As the season intensifies and the schedule tightens, Fort Lauderdale United appears well-prepared to meet the challenges ahead, a team.