Rally Madison Battled Back, but Sioux Falls Prevailed
Rally Madison FC fall 2-1 despite strong second-half response and late chances
Lineup Notes
MAD: #00 Zillman, #8 Christopher, #9 Wytennbach, #11 Bever, #13 Gordon, #16 Stanton, #17 Arthur, #18 Walos, #21 Oliviero, #22 Hevey, #30 Shea
SUBS: (67’) Hoelker, (69’) Hanson, (69’) Carillo, (76’) Rosenfeld, (76’ Armstrong)
SFC: #4 Korsching, #6 Speight, #7 Thomas, #9 Harmon, #11 Christensen, #13 Campbell, #14 Doumos, #15 Laney, #19 Brown, #21 Johann, #24 Donovaan
SUBS: (90’+2) Murray, (45’) Polanco, (63’) Wilson, (45’) Rowell, (63’) Strait, Hernandez, Mullady, Moreno, (63’) Boateng
Match Action
Rally Madison FC fell 2-1 on the road at Sioux Falls City FC in the hosts’ home opener, despite battling back after a difficult start. With everything to gain on the road, Rally Madison FC entered the match determined to secure a result, but Sioux Falls came out on the front foot. Sioux Falls set the tone early with high pressure and pace, striking first in the 8th minute before doubling their lead just minutes later. Zillman was busy from the opening whistle in a sweeper-keeper role, including a key stop in the 17th minute to keep it 1-0 before the second goal followed shortly after.
Rally gradually grew into the match, using the wind at their back and finding more control in possession. Gordon provided the breakthrough with a composed finish after beating two defenders and the goalkeeper for her first goal of the season, pulling Rally back into the game. Wyttenbach and Bever both came close to equalizing before halftime, while Zillman made a crucial stoppage-time save to keep it within reach.
After the half, Rally had shifted momentum, becoming the more aggressive side and shedding their early passivity. Rally showed an improved defensive organization, but Sioux Falls continued to generate chances. In the 76th minute, Zillman was forced off and Rosenfeld stepped in. Rosenfeld immediately made an impact, producing crucial saves to keep Rally alive.
Although Rally presented a strong second-half push and late chances, including a near equalizer from Shea in the final moments, they couldn’t find the finish. Despite the result, Rally Madison showed resilience after a difficult start, growing into the match and finishing with intensity.
Goal Summary
1-0 (8’) SFC — Christensen
2-0 (19’) SFC — Christensen
2-1 (31’) RMFC — Gordon
Next Match
Next up, Rally Madison FC will continue its extended road trip to face Minnesota Aurora FC on Thursday, June 4th at TCO Stadium. Rally Madison will attempt to subdue last year’s Division Title-holders after falling to them 2-0 at home. Fans can support the Club by purchasing single-game, season tickets, or shopping the Rally Merch Store!
About Rally Madison FC: Rally Madison will begin play in May of 2026, featuring the top pre-professional players in the country. More information on the Club and USL W League can be found at www.rallymadisonfc.com.
