Written By: Marilia Macedo
The Seattle team got off on the wrong foot in the NWSL opener match against the Washington Spirit on Sunday afternoon, March 26, at Audi Field in Washington, DC. Trinity Rodman scored the only goal during the ninety minutes, helping the Spirit to their first win of the season.
Even though they were visitors, Laura Harvey’s squad felt at home during the first half, threatening goalkeeper Bledsoe’s posts a few times, with Bethany Balcer and Jess Fishlock having the best opportunities. Yet, the attempts lacked precision, and Bledsoe could also make great saves.
On the other hand, the hosts did not get as much effectiveness in the passes due to Reign’s high pressure.
Just before the break, the game reversed, and Spirit started to attack more. However, The OL defense and Tullis-Joyce managed to hold the pressure and kept the match scoreless.
The opening minutes of the second half seemed favorable for The Bold, with Fishlock and her good moves, but even so, the hosts stepped in and took the lead after a beautiful shot from outside the area by Rodman, who was full of confidence, 1-0.
After suffering the hit, Harvey’s team sped up, trying to reach the tie. Lavelle, Fishlock, and Bennett were there to show their abilities, but the attempts were not enough. In the end, Mark Parsons’ squad won and got the first three points in the regular season.
OL Reign’s next challenge will be against NJ/NY Gotham FC on Saturday, April 01, at 7:30 PM ET. Meanwhile, Washington Spirit will face Racing Louisville at 3 PM ET on the same day.
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