Sporting JAX Takes on Defending Champs in First Away Match
USLSL Sporting Club Jacksonville

Sporting JAX Takes on Defending Champs in First Away Match

Published on August 30, 2025 under Gainbridge Super League (USLSL)
Sporting Club Jacksonville News Release


Just one week after playing its first-ever competitive match, Sporting JAX will face the tough task of taking on defending Gainbridge Super League champions Tampa Bay Sun FC on the road.

An area that Sporting JAX head coach Stacey Balaam has honed in on to this point is finishing chances. This will be wildly important against the Sun, who have scored in 17 of their last 19 matches. To beat this team, Sporting JAX will have to convert opportunities and score goals.

"The one part that was lacking was just being clinical in the final third and that's something we've addressed," Balaam said. "It's something we've watched on video, giving them more ideas, repping things out today."

This is a chance for redemption for Sporting JAX, but it also is for the Sun. Ultimately, it will be a battle of who can commit the least mistakes, take advantage of opportunity, and which side wants it more.

"Every game is going to be tough, and we know that," Balaam added. "They are the reigning champs that we now have to face and we've got to respect that."

The Opponent: Tampa Bay Sun FC

Sporting JAX may have recently made history, but the Sun set the tone for Gainbridge Super League history when it won the first-ever league final against Fort Lauderdale United FC.

This strong finish didn't carry over into last week's opener, as the Sun fell 2-1 to Brooklyn FC in a surprising defeat. Now, the champs return home to the Sunshine State with one thing on their mind: victory.

Following an incredible 2024/25 season, top scorer Cecilie Fløe Nielsen departed for Italian giant Napoli. Despite this loss, the Sun are still very dangerous with a fierce duo of Natasha Flint and Carlee Giammona. These offensive threats can strike at any moment, and the defensive mistakes that Sporting JAX committed last week will not be an option if the visitors are seeking a result.

Making things tougher for Sporting JAX is the location of the match. While roster talent plays a large part, the Sun have a dominant record at home, netting 10 wins at Riverfront Stadium last season. Balaam's squad will look to be the first road team to pick up a win there since March 19.

How To Watch

Fans can watch this match, along with every 2025/26 Gainbridge Super League match, live on Peacock.

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