Chicago Red Stars knocked out of playoffs

The Chicago Red Stars' historic first-ever participation in the National Women's Soccer League playoffs came to a bit of a bizarre end on Sunday afternoon. Despite putting up a strong performance and outshooting visiting FC Kansas City 18-11 over the course of 90 minutes, Head Coach Rory Dames' squad came up short against the defending champs, who earned a 3-0 victory courtesy of ruthless finishing and well-organized team defending.

Striker Amy Rodriguez bagged a brace for the visitors, and fellow U.S. Women's National Team ace Nicole Barnhart made 9 saves in net to preserve the shutout against furiously attacking Red Stars.