Durham Reporter

Considered a top contender for the NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year, Casey Murphy has shown exceptional performance throughout 2024. Having joined the National Women's Soccer League in 2019, Murphy has consistently demonstrated her skills on both international and domestic stages. This year, she leads the league in prevented goals per 90 minutes.

Murphy's form improved significantly following her return from the Paris Olympics with a Gold Medal. Prior to the games, she had an expected goals against of 19.02 but conceded only 17 goals with a save percentage of 73.85%. In nine matches post-Olympics, her expected goals against is 17.31, yet she allowed just ten goals and achieved a save percentage of 75.61%.

Reflecting on her Olympic experience, Murphy said, "The summer was exciting. It was my first Olympics, and I feel like I took a lot away from that experience... We’re entering postseason, so it’s just about staying sharp and keeping the standards high until the end."

Nathan Thackeray, Courage goalkeeper coach, attributes Murphy's success to her consistency throughout the season. He noted: "She’s been extremely consistent... The biggest thing for Casey... is how consistent she is."

The stability of Courage's backline over recent seasons has also contributed to their defensive strength. Thackeray emphasized its importance: "It benefits the entire team... Their understanding of each other’s traits and their strengths and weaknesses is really important."

Thackeray further credited Murphy's ability to learn and apply new concepts as key to her growth: "The biggest thing is that she’s listened to information and applied it to her game."

While Murphy participated in the Olympics, Marisa Bova stepped up as Courage's penalty shootout hero during multiple Summer Cup games. Thackeray highlighted this intra-group competition as crucial for development: "I don’t think there’s any surprises that Casey has come back from the Olympics and improved her performances."

Murphy acknowledged Bova's contributions but remains focused on personal improvement: "Mo had a wonderful summer... But with that said, I only compete against myself..."

As playoffs approach with their decisive nature, having a strong goalkeeper like Murphy could prove vital for Courage.

NCCourage.com expressed support for Murphy receiving individual honors this season.