NWSL Washington Spirit

Washington Spirit Fall 2-0 to the Houston Dash in Season Opener

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


HOUSTON, TX - The Washington opened the 2015 NWSL season with a loss on the road against the Houston Dash 2-0 on Saturday night. The Dash victory was secured by a goal from midfielder Carli Lloyd in first half stoppage time and a goal from forward Kealia Ohai in the 50th minute.

Both sides started off the match with pace and the Spirit did well to possess and move the ball around the pitch while pushing forward through to the attacking third on occasion.

In the 17th minute Dash forward Jessica McDonald collided with defender Ali Krieger mid air. Krieger remained down on the field after the collision as trainers were called on to the field. She was stretchered off the pitch and then transported to the hospital. Krieger has been initially diagnosed with a mild concussion. NWSL and USSF concussion protocols are being followed and she is being monitored.

Estelle Johnson came on the in the 25th minute to replace Krieger. At that point, the Dash began to take a bit more control of the game and mounted a series of attacks on the Spirit backline. The Dash took the lead late in first half stoppage time when a clinical finish from Lloyd found the back of the net.

The Dash came out in the second half strong continuing to build on the momentum gained with Lloyd's late goal. Houston doubled the lead in the 50th minute as Kealia Ohai capitalized on a defensive miscue and slipped her shot just under Spirit goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris.

Head coach Mark Parsons replaced Amanda Da Costa with Crystal Dunn in the 58th minute. Dunn, who primarily plays on the backline with the U.S. Women's National team, played a different role in tonight's game as she was one of the most dangerous attacking players on the pitch. In the 90th minute Dunn sent off a strong shot from inside the box, but her effort went across the face of goal.

The late burst of offensive pressure from the Spirit wasn't enough to overcome the two goal deficit and the Dash were able to start off the season with a 2-0 home victory over the Spirit.

Washington will look to bounce back in their home opener next week against FC Kansas City at Maureen Hendricks Field on Saturday, April 18 at 7 p.m.

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National Women's Soccer League Stories from April 11, 2015


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