The Utah Royals FC closed their 2025 season on a triumphant yet emotional note Sunday evening, defeating the Washington Spirit 1–0 before a crowd of more than 9,000 fans at America First Field in Sandy.
While the win capped a late-season resurgence, it was also a heartfelt send-off for three players — Claudia Zornoza, Imani Dorsey, and Olivia (Smith) Griffitts — all of whom announced their retirement this year.
Monaghan Leads Royals to Season-Ending Win
Forward Paige Monaghan scored her fifth goal of the year early in the match, converting a setup from Slovenian midfielder Lara Prasnikar, who was making her first start since joining midseason. Monaghan’s goal in the fourth minute proved to be the game-winner.
“The togetherness of this team was everything,” Monaghan said. “I’m so grateful to be their teammate. It was such an honor.”
Goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn anchored Utah’s defense with three crucial saves, preserving her third shutout of the season.
The victory snapped a two-game skid and gave the Royals a final record of 7–13–7 in their second full year back in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
Building Toward the Future
Despite missing the playoffs, Utah showed encouraging signs of growth, earning 10 positive results in their final 13 matches. Coach Jimmy Coenraets said the team’s strong finish sets the tone for 2026.
“We feel like if we can keep this momentum going, we can be a playoff contender,” Coenraets said. “Hitting rock bottom gives us a great foundation to build on.”
For Monaghan, the season marked a personal breakthrough. After recovering from a broken foot, she delivered career highs in goals (5) and assists (2), logging over 1,000 minutes across 16 appearances.
“The belief my teammates and coaches had in me went a long way,” Monaghan said. “This year, I finally had the consistency I’ve craved in my career.”
Honoring Three Royals Legends
Sunday’s finale was about more than just the scoreboard. The Royals honored three players whose careers left lasting marks on the club and the sport.
- Claudia Zornoza, 35, the Spanish midfielder and former Real Madrid Femenino standout, played her final professional match after a 17-year career that included appearances in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
- Imani Dorsey, a 2018 NWSL Rookie of the Year, concluded her seven-year career, making a late-game appearance in her final outing.
- Olivia (Smith) Griffitts, a former BYU Cougars defender, was honored for her contributions to the franchise following her retirement earlier this year after giving birth to her first child.
Coach Coenraets praised all three for their professionalism and leadership.
“Claudia is one of the most gifted players I’ve ever coached,” he said. “Imani’s intelligence on the field is unmatched, and Olivia’s character embodies what we want this club to stand for.”
Local Talent on Display
Washington’s lineup featured two Utah natives — Heather Stainbrook (Alta High, Utah Valley University) and Courtney Brown (Fremont High, University of Utah) — both of whom received loud applause from home-state fans. Brown’s cheering section included more than 100 family and friends.
A Season of Gratitude and Growth
While the Royals’ record won’t turn heads, the club’s final stretch proved their resilience. After years of rebuilding since their 2023 relaunch, the foundation for future success is finally taking shape.
As Coenraets summed it up: “This year was about identity — about who we are and what kind of football we want to play. And tonight, we saw that heart on display.”
