All photos credit Howie Pollard

PSP photographer Howie Pollard was on hand Wednesday, October 6 for the special farewell match for Carli Lloyd, as the Gotham FC played the Washington Spirit to a 0-0 draw. The electricity in the stadium was palpable, fueled by the dreams and aspirations of starry eyed young girls eager to see their hero take the pitch one more time. The game remained even throughout as both teams split time of possession, shots, passes, fouls and yellow cards. Even with the match ending in a tie, the real winners were the fans who go to show their appreciation to an individual who has changed the view of women’s athletics forever.

Carli Lloyd Hometown Farewell Match.

Media from around the area were set up to gauge the excitement prior to the match.

Some aspiring future stars from the local Swedesboro Club (SWSA) get ready to take in the action.

The team lines up for the National Anthem.

Johnson fights for possession in the early moments of the match.

Sullivan sends the header out on front of Lloyd.

Johnson on the attack.

The teams take a moment to stand united as one.

Bledsoe goes up high to grab the corner during the first half of action.

Monaghan takes control at midfield.

Zerboni looks for a scoring opportunity as Bledsoe keeps a close on on the ball.

The stadium erupts as Lloyd fires a shot on goal during the first half of play.

Lloyd drives toward goal looking for her spot.

Purce fights for control at midfield.

Onumonu gets the header off the corner, but Bledsoe is there to make the save.

Johnson races to stop Rodman from setting up for a shot.

On a night were shots were limited, Sheridan goes up high to snag the attempt.

Lloyd takes a shot from the top of the box during the second half of the match.

Lloyd shared some thoughts with the Spirit after this penalty in the early part of the second half.

Lloyd with the cross trying to spark a scoring opportunity.

Onumonu battles for position with Sonnett as they await the the kick.

Dydasco keeps the ball in play as she pushes downfield looking for a pass.

Lloyd on the defense as Sonnett tries to clear the zone.

Lloyd and Sullivan battle for the header off the corner.

Sullivan gets a yellow card during the 77th min for this play on Lloyd.

Viens looking to spark Gotham as she comes in the 73rd min of the match.

The Spirit get a late surge, but are turned away by Sheridan once again.

Zerboni clears the ball off the corner late in the second half.

Carli Lloyd shows her appreciation to all the fans as the match concludes in a tie.

It was an emotional night for the GOAT, as she stepped up to address the droves of screaming fans.

A look of satisfaction as Carli looks out to the crowd.

After a hard fought match, Llyod’s teammates felt a little blue bath was in order.

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Lloyd was a little surprised to say the least.

Carli got to celebrate with her family and friends post match.

Time for a Social Media Update.

For more photos, check out Howie’s Facebook site MSG Photography and feel free to leave comments.