NWSL Team of the Month for June includes two Washington Spirit players

Following a month in which the Washington Spirit were unbeaten (2W-1D-0L) and conceded just one goal, Estelle Johnson and Stephanie Labbe were recognized for their performances by being named to the NWSL Team of the Month for June. Both players made the list for the second time in 2017, having previously been named to the April team of the Month.

Johnson, a career center back who has spent most of the season at right back, has provided numerous vital tackles and blocks that have stopped otherwise dangerous attacks. Of field players with more than 180 minutes played this season, only six players league-wide have won a higher percentage of duels than Johnson’s 68.1%.

Labbe, whose nod in April came as she faced an absurd number of shots, has been a stabilizing force as an organizer for the improving Washington defense. The only shot to beat Labbe this month came via a Christen Press penalty kick, and her leadership from the back has helped the Spirit give away few major chances. That said, she’s still making the big saves when the time comes:

The full Team of the Month is as follows:

Goalkeeper: Stephanie Labbe
Defenders: Estelle Johnson, Ali Krieger, Abby Dahlkemper, Casey Short
Midfielders: Jessica Fishlock, Samantha Mewis, Marta
Forwards: Ashley Hatch, Samantha Kerr, Megan Rapinoe

Sky Blue FC forward Samantha Kerr was named Player of the Month earlier in the day, with Marta and Megan Rapinoe coming in second and third, respectively. It’s the second time in a row she’s taken the award, which has only happened once before in NWSL history.