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NWSL Houston Dash

Houston Dash Earn Draw Against Reigning NWSL Champion Portland Thorns

April 15, 2023 - National Women's Soccer League (NWSL)
Houston Dash News Release


The Houston Dash remain unbeaten to earn a crucial point on the road against the reigning NWSL Champion, Portland Thorns, on Friday night. Houston became the first team to score at Providence Park this season.

Houston equalized in the 24th minute after forward María Sánchez took on Portland defender Reyna Reyes one-on-one on the near side. Sánchez was able to find space and snuck the ball into the far corner of the goal to even the match.

Portland took the lead in the ninth minute of the match after midfielder Crystal Dunn scored her second goal of the season.

Houston equalized in the 24th minute after forward María Sánchez took on Portland defender Reyna Reyes one-on-one on the near side. Sánchez was able to find space and snuck the ball into the far corner of the goal to even the match.

The Dash nearly took the lead in the 80th minute after forward Ebony Salmon forced a turnover in the midfield. Salmon's shot forced a save that Portland goalkeeper Bella Bixby struggled to handle. Defender Courtney Peterson was able to get the ball into the back of the net but was called for a foul before the ball crossed into the goal.

Forward Diana Ordóñez had a look on goal in the 57th minute of the second half from the far side. Her shot was handled by the Portland goalkeeper to keep the score level.

Sánchez and Ordóñez nearly connected for a goal in the 19th minute of the match after Sánchez crossed into the center of the box. The Portland defense was able to extinguish the attack. A few minutes later, Sánchez connected with Ordóñez whose shot sailed just over the cross bar.

Salmon had an open look on goal in the 23rd minute beating a Portland defender at the near post. Salmon's shot forced Bixby to make a save.

The Houston back line was tested early after a Portland counterattack three minutes into the match had the defense on its toes. Goalkeeper Jane Campbell made four saves in the match.

Defender Caprice Dydasco passed the 10,000-minute milestone at the 21st minute, becoming the 32nd player in league history to reach the milestone. Dydasco is currently in her first full season with the Dash and eighth within the league.

Forward Michelle Alozie made her season debut as a second half stoppage time substitute. The Nigerian international made 10 appearances last season for the Dash, scoring two goals.

The Dash open Challenge Cup play on Wednesday, April 19 at 6:30pm CT at Shell Energy Stadium to face the Kansas City Current for the first time since last postseason meeting on October 16. Wednesday's match will be the first of four 713 Nights this season. 713 Nights, presented by Bud Light, are one of the best values in Houston as fans can purchase $7 tickets, $1 hot dogs and $3 beers.

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