The Challenge Cup is back and opening weekend saw 6 games with Chicago closing out the games on Sunday night. The teams are broke up into three divisions; central, east, west, with Chicago being in the central division.
First Half
The Red Stars started their challenge cup bid in Houston against the Dash. With a new coach for Chicago, and new players for both teams, it was unclear how the match would turn out. The opening minutes saw transitions from both sides as everyone tried to get settled.
It seemed that a goal may come off a fast break, but instead, Houston struck first off a set piece. Dash forward, Maria Sanchez was able to draw a foul on Red Stars defender Bianca St. Georges. Rachel Daly took the free kick which was originally saved by goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher but Katie Naughton was able to tap it in to give Houston the first goal of the match.
In the 27th minute, Ella Stevens passed the ball to Mallory Pugh who dribbled into the box. Her initial shot was saved by keeper Jane Campbell, but Pugh one-time the rebound into the back of the net.
Second Half
At the half, the Red Stars saw two changes that provided a spark. Rookies Ava Cook and Sarah Griffith made their professional debuts for the team and made an immediate impact.
In the 52nd minute, Cook had a shot saved by Campbell. Shortly after, the Red Stars were awarded a controversial penalty that occurred on a corner kick. Arin Wright took and made the penalty to give Chicago a 2-1.
The final goal of the match came from a Houston giveaway in their own half. Pugh collected the ball and took a shot from distance that deflected off of Naughton. Campbell made a diving attempt at the save, but she couldn’t reach the ball.
Post Game
After the game, Chicago defender Tierna Davidson said that resiliency is part of the teams DNA.
“It’s really encouraging to see that the rookies feel that energy as well and can understand our DNA and want to buy into it”.
Red Stars Head Coach Chris Petrucelli said that rookies Ava Cook and Sarah Griffith provided a much needed spark off the bench.
“I thought those two were really good given it’s their first real action”.
Chicago will now return home to Seat Geek Stadium on Friday March 25th when they host the Kansas City Current at 7:30 CT.