FC Tucson Women Aim for Comeback After Tough Setback

FC Tucson faced their first defeat of the season last week, falling 4-0 to rivals SC Del Sol. The team is now focused on internal lessons and recovery.

“One of the biggest things we took away was our energy and mindset,” stated coach Caylee Carter. “When things go awry, we struggle to rebound.”

Despite the loss, goalkeeper Grace Hughes emerged as a standout performer. Her first-half saves helped stabilize the defense, especially after halftime adjustments. “She showed significant composure in pivotal moments,” Carter noted about the 17-year-old player. “Every goal she concedes weighs heavily on her.”

Hughes, who actively leads from the back, emphasized her communication skills as vital to organizing the defense. “I strive to guide my teammates, whether it’s a simple shift or more complex instructions,” she explained.

Looking ahead, Hughes is ready to put the previous match behind her. “We’ll leave that game in the dust and prepare for our next opponents,” she said. FC Tucson will compete against PHX Heat and then face Desert Dreams, a team currently undefeated.

Carter expressed uncertainty about the upcoming match against PHX Heat, noting their status as a new team in the league. “It’s unpredictable; we don’t entirely know what to expect,” she remarked.

PHX Heat’s owner, Brett Lashbrook, has a storied background in American soccer, previously founding the Las Vegas Lights. Known for unconventional promotional tactics, his ownership included whimsical stunts, such as dropping cash from helicopters, which drew regulatory scrutiny.

Despite his experience, the Heat have struggled so far, currently sitting winless at the bottom of the table, with 23 goals conceded in their first four games.