A month ago, the San Diego Wave’s Kimmi Ascanio scored her first professional goal, a moment that left the 17-year-old in tears. Friday night, she delivered an even more important one. Her 30th-minute goal was the only scoring as the Wave beat NJ/NY Gotham FC 1-0 at Sports Illustrated Stadium. The Wave improved to 5-2-2, while Gotham fell to 3-4-3. Ascanio’s goal was the result of an impressive attack by SDFC’s possession-based offense. Delphine Cascarino dribbled the ball past midfield, then passed to Perle Morroni. She found Ascanio, who got around her defender and scored at the far post. “I just made the run and Perle found me,” Ascanio said. Ascanio became the second-youngest player in the National Women’s Soccer League history to score a game-winning goal. The Wave have received nine all-time goals from players aged 17 or younger, more than all other NWSL clubs combined. This year’s team features three promising teenagers: Ascanio, Trinity Armstrong and San Diego native Melanie Barcenas. “A lot of time, younger players don’t get their chance,” Ascanio said. “I think it’s important that (coach Jonas Eidevall) trusts us, and it gives us a lot of confidence to go into the game and do what we know how to do.” Kailen Sheridan recorded her 25th career shutout for the Wave, who have been the surprise of the National Women’s Soccer League so far this season. SDFC returns to Snapdragon Stadium on May 25 to take on the North Carolina Courage, who are led by former Wave star Jaedyn Shaw. The 7 p.m. match will air live on CBS Sports Network.