By Amelia Hirtle
On Sunday night, the Red Stars hosted the Orlando Pride, who were coming into the match on a 6-game winless streak. Chicago was hot, however, winning 4 of their last 5 matches. The first 15 minutes of the game saw Chicago controlling the offense. The Pride struggled to clear the ball defensively and spent much of that time in their half. However, a break in defense for Orlando found Ali Krieger alone with the ball at her center back position. She passed the ball forward to Jodie Taylor who was making a run towards the box. Taylor was able to control the ball on the first touch and slow down the 3 Chicago defenders before taking the shot and putting Orlando up 1-0.
Mallory Pugh, who continues to be dangerous for the Red Stars, was able to create some space and get a shot off in the 29th minute, causing Orlando keeper Ashlyn Harris to make a diving save to punch the ball away from the net.
Orlando seemed content with their 1 goal lead over Chicago. They were careful in how they controlled the ball and were settling for thrown-ins late in the match. But, in the 89th minute, Erika Tymrak of the Pride took the ball up the field, avoiding a defender in her path, and got a quick pass off to Sydney Leroux who made a sliding shot on goal to give Orlando a 2-0 lead.
However, Chicago came away with injuries to Danielle Colaprico and Morgan Gautrat after hard tackles from Orlando players. The Pride was given 3 yellow cards in this match. Chicago Head coach Rory Dames said post-game that both players would likely have to get an MRI early in the week.
Chicago will look to bounce back as they travel to North Carolina to take on the Courage on Sunday, August 15 at 6 PM ET.