The Denver Summit delivered a commanding 6-1 victory over the Chicago Stars on Saturday, marking a significant boost in their pursuit of a playoff spot this season.
The No. 9 ranked Summit, an expansion team that joined the league in 2026, recorded the National Women’s Soccer League’s first six-goal performance of the year, setting a new single-season record for the club in the process. This emphatic win has brought Denver within just four points of reaching postseason play.
Melissa Kössler was among the five different goal scorers for Denver, netting her fifth and sixth goals of the campaign, underlining her growing influence on the team’s offensive front.
Return of a Key Player Adds to Denver’s Surge
Adding to the Summit’s momentum was the return of midfielder Lindsey Heaps, the USWNT captain and Denver’s marquee signing. After missing four matches due to a knee injury, Heaps appeared on the bench, providing energy and leadership. Coach Nick Cushing praised her presence, describing Heaps as “50% coach, 50% super fan,” reflecting her genuine passion and commitment to the club.
Looking ahead, Denver will face a stern challenge as they host the league-leading Gotham on Sunday at 2 PM ET, with the match broadcast on CBS. This upcoming fixture will serve as a crucial test of the Summit’s recent form and their playoff aspirations moving forward.