Credit Katelin Severino
By Juan Carlos Maygua
Gotham FC started the NWSL regular season with their home opening game against the Houston Dash in the Red Bull Arena. The anticipation was big as many fans were eager to see the team play after their successful run in the Challenge Cup. Both teams arrived in this regular season undefeated, making this a fixture that could determine who keeps that undefeated streak.
Control in midfield
Both teams are known to like possession in every game. This would suggest that both teams would have a battle in midfield to gain control and set the tempo of the game. Alexandra Long was key if the game had these characteristics. Houston Dash had Nichelle Prince in the wing to create any attacking plays. The first half saw both teams press in midfield, so there was no room for clean transitions or good buildup plays. Margaret Purse made a run down the wing in the 30th minute to score the first goal of the season for Gotham FC. Purce has been a key player for the team in the attacking aspect. Alongside Alexandra Long, Purse is the player to watch this season. Houston Dash did create chances through Nichelle Prince, there were moments in which they managed to push Gotham into their half.
The second half saw a battle between Caprice Dydasco and Nichelle Prince as Houston Dash started pressing Gotham in their half. Dydasco saw multiple one-on-one challenges with Prince throughout the half, but she was solid and did not allow Prince to make any damage. The remainder of the half was very paused due to the increase in fouls by both teams. Carli Lloyd was more involved in the second half, making key passes between the lines and creating spaces on the field/ However, the score would remain the same and Gotham FC started the season obtaining 3 important points.
Headcoach Freya Coombe was pleased to obtain the three points given how Houston created chances throughout the game. In addition, Margaret Purse praised the defensive line’s work throughout the game, “It’s not easy to be back there”. She also valued the victory and how important fans were in today’s victory while playing down any concerns after her collision with Kainlen Sheridan. It’s important to point out that Sheridan started her first game after her injury, the result meant a lot o her as she didn’t expect to be back in action so quickly. “I have amazing teammates and staff who helped me along the way, I wouldn’t be here without them”.