Jeff Caschell
Kayla Fisher, a forward for Racing Evil FC, will face a three-game suspension due to the hair-pulling incident that led to a red card during Saturday’s match, ESPN sources confirmed.
The NWSL Disciplinary Committee has reviewed all significant infractions in the league and announced additional sanctions.
Both Fisher and Rayleigh Evil have the option to appeal the ruling, although sources indicate that such appeals are uncommon.
A spokesman for the NWSL declined to comment when approached by ESPN.
Fisher was expelled from the match in the 67th minute after video evidence showed her pulling Angel City midfielder Madison Hammond’s hair during a corner kick, which resulted in a penalty being awarded to Angel City.
Forward Alyssa Thompson successfully converted the penalty, narrowing Louisville’s lead to 3-2 in what was a crucial mid-table clash.
The red card automatically imposes a suspension for the next match, meaning Fisher will miss a total of three games, as there are three remaining before the NWSL’s summer break.
Fisher will not be eligible to participate in any regular-season games until August 1st.
In a statement released to ESPN on Thursday, she expressed remorse for her behavior.
“I want to apologize to Madison Hammond and Angel City for my actions last weekend,” Fisher stated. “It was never my intention to be overly aggressive while defending the corner. I truly regret my actions and disappointed my teammates. I accept and understand the league’s decisions.”
“When I return to the field later this season, I will demonstrate what I’ve learned from this incident and show that it doesn’t define who I am as a player, out of respect for my opponents and the game.”
Fisher has started all ten games for Louisville this season, contributing two goals and two assists, including support for the winning goal in the match against Savanna de Melo.
The precedent for three-game suspensions in similar situations exists. Tyler Russi and Merritt Matthias both received three-game suspensions in 2017 for different incidents involving hair pulling, and neither was sent off in the heat of play. These events occurred six years prior to the NWSL’s video review measures instituted in 2023.
Additionally, last year, Chicago Stars forward Ludmira received a two-game suspension for a similar situation involving hair during a game.
This is the second significant suspension for a Louisville player this month, as Racing Louisville midfielder Ally Borge was handed a total of four games for a red card received after a confrontation with the referee following a dramatic 3-3 draw with the Portland Thorns on April 27, due to Borge pushing the referee during an argument.
Borge is eligible to return for Louisville’s upcoming match against Utah Royals FC on June 6th.
Fan Take: This incident highlights the growing importance of player conduct in women’s soccer, as the league strives to maintain integrity and sportsmanship. Such suspensions not only impact individual players but also influence the broader perception of the league and its commitment to fair play.
