Midge Purce looks to thrive in biggest moments again as Gotham FC’s postseason begins

Gotham FC begin their NWSL postseason on Sunday as top seeds against eighth-seeded Seattle Reign, with forward Midge Purce expected to be central to their title bid. Team-mates say her intensity, confidence and ability to lift the side make her particularly effective in high-pressure matches.

Purce helped Gotham win two of the past three league championships, including the 2023 final against Seattle, when she assisted both goals. She also scored against Orlando on 25 October and assisted goals in Gotham’s 2-0 regular-season finale against Utah. Having already won the Challenge Cup and NWSL Shield, Gotham need the championship to complete what would be the league’s first treble.