Fort Lauderdale, FL – Lexington Sporting Club’s Gainbridge Super League women’s team kicked off the 2025/26 season with an eventful 3–3 draw against Fort Lauderdale United FC at Beyond Bancard Field. The match also marked the debut of new head coach Masaki Hemmi, who joins Lexington SC after serving as interim head coach for the Chicago Stars in the NWSL.
Fort Lauderdale jumped out to an early lead in the first half when Darya Rajaee (#12) opened the scoring in the 17th minute directly from a free kick.The halftime whistle sounded with Fort Lauderdale holding on to their 1-0 lead. The second half saw the hosts double their lead through Kiara Locklear (#20) in the 57th minute of the match.
Lexington SC’s comeback began with a moment of quality in the 58th minute. From a free kick near the halfway line, defender Allison Pantuso (#3) lofted a pass into the penalty area. Midfielder Addie McCain (#18) rose above the defense and powered a header into the back of the net, cutting the deficit in half.
The visitors found their equalizer in the 69th minute when substitute McKenzie Weinert (#11) calmly finished a chance created by Emina Ekić (#10). Just minutes from time, Lexington appeared to have completed the turnaround. In the 87th minute, Ekić delivered a dangerous corner kick to the back post, where Pantuso pounced to give Lexington a 3–2 lead.
Even after Lexington’s rally, Fort Lauderdale had one last response. In stoppage time, the hosts won a penalty, which Jasmine Hamid converted to seal a 3–3 draw.
While not claiming all three points, Lexington showed grit and determination in clawing back from a two-goal deficit, a promising sign of the team’s resilience and growth under Coach Hemmi.
Lexington SC now turns its attention to its home opener on Sunday, September 7, against Brooklyn FC. Kickoff is set for 2:00 p.m. ET at Lexington SC Stadium.