The Return of the NWSL
The NWSL returned today, following the success of this summer’s Challenge Cup, with its highly anticipated fall series breaking the league into three regional pods across the country:
West: OL Reign, Portland Thorns FC, Utah Royals FC.
Northeast: Chicago Red Stars, Sky Blue FC, Washington Spirit.
South: North Carolina Courage, Orlando Pride, Houston Dash.
Although little time has passed since the conclusion of the Challenge Cup, the NWSL almost looks like a completely different league with many of its biggest stars on loan to the WSL. On top of players opting out for other reasons like Kelley Ohara and Megan Rapinoe. However, this change actually benefits teams. Giving the remaining players, who usually do not see many minutes, an opportunity to gain more experience and showcase their skills.
Washington Spirit vs. Sky Blue FC
The action kicked off on CBS with the Washington Spirit facing off against Sky Blue at Segra Field.
Both teams suffered substantial losses heading into the series. The Spirit lost former star Rose Lavelle in a trade with OL Reign, on top of the continued absence of Andi Sullivan due to injury. At the same time, Sky Blue continues to adapt to the loss of Carli Lloyd, also due to injury.
Sky Blue set an intense pace from the start, with several close calls leading up to and following the first goal of the day from Ifeoma Onumonu in the 18th minute. Putting immense pressure on Washington’s struggling backline, Onumonu stripped the ball away, creating a clear path to put them ahead. With the ball soaring right over 2019 Keeper of the Year, Aubrey Bledsoe.
Sky Blue retained dominance throughout the first half. Partially thanks to a fantastic performance from Onumonu, who was acquired from the Reign earlier this year. Along with fellow forward Midge Purce, who seamlessly weaved through Washington’s defense. Not to mention, defender Sabrina Flores stepping out of the backline and joining in on the attack. All of whom played a considerable role in Sky Blue’s ability to maintain possession.
Despite Washington’s increased pressure as the game continued, the team continuously struggled up top in the final third. Yet, the biggest issue for the Spirit was their defense. Their poor clearances coupled with bad communication allowed Sky Blue’s front line to slip through with ease. Which put Bledsoe in several dangerous situations with six on goal shots throughout the game.
Sky Blue continued to keep up the pace in the second half with World Cup champion Mallory Pugh making her first appearance with the team after being subbed in the 61st, taking some pressure off of Sky Blue’s frontline. But still, Washington’s Paige Nielsen was able to sink in a late goal in the 89th minute.
Sky Blue secured the 2-1 win in the third minute of stoppage time with an assist from Pugh that delivered the ball right past Washinton’s defense to Purce, who slipped it past Bledsoe and into the lower left with an outside shot.
Putting an end to the first of many action packed games scheduled for the upcoming weeks.
Follow me on Twitter @sporty_spicce. Keep up with Beyond Women’s Sports for more articles on amazing women and their sport, and tune in to the NWSL Fall Series on CBS and CBS All Access.
