By Marilia Macedo
OL Reign hosted the Chicago Red Stars on Friday, September 9 in Seattle, Washington, at Lumen Field, and the fans witnessed a great match between the teams.
Although the Red Stars had more possession, the first half was full of opportunities for the Reign, which controlled the game, making great plays with Megan Rapinoe and Rose Lavelle.
Still, it was Jordyn Huitema who scored first. In the 18th minute, Huerta sent a great pass to the box, and Huitema attempted twice: the first hit the defender’s head, and then she took the rebound, sending it to the back of the net, 1-0.
Later, the Canadian player had another great chance, but her attempt hit the post, and Alyssa Naeher was able to save. It seemed to be a controlled half.
However, after that, the Red Stars tried to attack more in order to avoid more problems – and there was a reward. The equalizer came when the OL defensive system could not keep the danger out of the area and Ella Stevens right-footed, beating the keeper Tullis-Joyce in the 47th minute, 1-1.
The equalizer before the break gave the visitors new energy to start the second half – they kept Laura Harvey’s squad under pressure, connecting passes and searching for the best opportunities, some of them with Pugh and Danielle Colaprico. Then, the tables turned when the referee conceded a penalty kick in the minute 68, and Colaprico converted, 1-2.
Even in a bad situation, the Seattle team did not throw in the towel, and Lavelle scored a beautiful goal to get the equalizer, 2-2.
In stoppage time, the Bold had the chance to take the three points, but the crossbar and Naeher denied it, and the duel ended in a draw.
The next OL game will be against the Courage on Saturday, September 17, at 7:30 PM ET, while the Red Stars will face the Kansas City Current on Wednesday, September 14, at 8 PM ET.