Westfield Matildas abroad: Kerr’s goal saves Chicago

Westfield Matildas star Sam Kerr continues to shine in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), scoring a vital goal to secure her Chicago Red Stars a draw against runaway leaders North Carolina Courage on Saturday (AEST).

With her side trailing 1-0 just after the hour mark, Kerr delivered for the Red Stars with a brilliant header from just inside the box after a great cross from Vanessa Di Bernardo.

SEE KERR'S GOAL BELOW

The goal was Kerr’s 10th of the season for her new club, taking her level at the top of the golden boot charts alongside the Courage’s Lynn Williams and USA international Lindsey Horan of Portland Thorns.

It was also her 53rd goal in the NWSL as she pulls further ahead as the competition's greatest-ever scorer.

While the Courage had their chances to grab a winner, it was Kerr again who almost stole all three points for the home side in injury time.

Just when the 24-year-old was about to get a goal-bound shot away, Courage defender Merritt Mathias made a huge tackle to secure the draw on the road for her side.

Brazilian international Debinha scored North Carolina’s goal midway through the first half.

The draw means Chicago remains in fifth position, level on points with fourth-placed Portland Thorns but with a two-goal deficit on goal difference.

Both sides have five matches left in the regular season.

Kerr and Chicago are next in action on Thursday (AEST), taking on Steph Catley and Lydia Williams’ Seattle Reign in a crucial clash for both club’s finals hopes.