By Mason Cavalier

WashingtonSpirit.com

Boyds, Md. (Jan. 22, 2019) – Washington Spirit goalkeeper Audrey Bledsoe has remained in top form during her time on loan this offseason with Sydney FC of the Westfield W-League. With two regular season games remaining, Bledsoe is aiming to help Sydney FC secure a playoff berth as her stay in Australia winds down.

In Bledsoe’s most recent outing, she provided seven saves in a crucial victory over the Brisbane Roar, which allowed Sydney FC to leapfrog Brisbane on the table. With those three points, Sydney FC are nearly guaranteed a playoff spot come February, as the top four teams on the table progress to the postseason.

“Things are coming together on the field, and we’ve won five of our last six matches, putting us in second place,” said Bledsoe. “There are two more regular season games and we’re focusing on one match at a time to hopefully put us in a position to win the league. My goal is to come back to the Spirit after winning the Grand Final.”

Since joining Sydney FC, Bledsoe immediately stepped into the starting role between the posts, starting all 10 of Sydney’s regular season games, playing a full 900 minutes in the process. The record-breaking shot-stopper currently sits at 38 saves, third best in the league, and has collected two clean sheets, tied for fifth best in the league. In addition, Bledsoe and the Sydney FC defense have made life difficult for opposing attackers, giving up the third-least amount of goals in the league at 15.

“I’ve really enjoyed playing for Sydney FC for a second season here in the W-League. It’s been a rewarding season already, getting to come back and build on our successes and continue to grow friendships from last year,” said Bledsoe, whose experience with the W-League is not limited to just this season. The keeper was a regular in goal for Sydney FC during their 2017-2018 as well, where Sydney fell in the Grand Finals to Melbourne City.

Sydney FC and Bledsoe’s next game is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 23 at 1:35am EST against Wellington Phoenix.