NWSL Houston Dash

Houston Dash defeat Washington Spirit 2-0 in season opener

Published on April 11, 2015 under National Women's Soccer League (NWSL)
Houston Dash News Release


HOUSTON - The new-look Houston Dash came into the first match of the NWSL season wanting to prove a point, and did that emphatically with a 2-0 win over the Washington Spirit at BBVA Compass Stadium.

Offseason acquisition Carli Lloyd thumped in the opening goal in first half stoppage time, and sophomore Kealia Ohai put away the second goal five minutes into the second half to cap an impressive attacking display from Houston.

Washington was dealt an early blow in the match when defender Ali Krieger had to be stretchered off the field after a 17th minute collision with Jessica McDonald. Krieger, the Spirit captain and a U.S. Women's National Team regular, was taken to Houston Methodist Hospital and diagnosed with a mild concussion.

Despite only having two practices with the full roster leading into the match, head coach Randy Waldrum's side continually looked dangerous going forward. The midfield trio of Lloyd, No. 1 draft pick Morgan Brian and English signing Rachael Axon controlled the tempo brought themselves into the attack with the forwards to challenge the Spirit backline.

Six minutes into seven total of first half added time due to Krieger's injury, Lloyd gave the Dash the lead they had worked for. Working to her right just outside the box, the USWNT star found a slight opening and unleashed a shot that ricocheted off the underside of the crossbar, off the turf and finally over the goal line.

Houston came out of the gates in the second half with the same attacking mindset. In the 50th minute, Ohai pounced on a heavy touch from center back Megan Oyster 25 yards from goal. The Dash forward muscled her way into the box and cleanly slid the ball under goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris to double the lead.

Washington had a chance to pull a goal back in the 77th minute when Christine Nairn found herself alone on the outside of the box with a clear look at goal, but the midfielder couldn't pick out her target and the shot whistled just wide of the far post. The Dash kept their foot on the gas peddle until the final whistle to earn their first win and first shutout of the new season.

Both teams return to action next Saturday, April 18, as the Dash travel to New Jersey to face Sky Blue FC and the Spirit welcome FC Kansas City for their home opener.

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