The Portland Thorns played last evening their biggest test in this early stage in the 2023 NWSL Season. Their rival, Houston Dash, came to Portland and decided to not be part of what is a spectacular start of the season for the Portland Thorns. Order and patience was Houston’s recipe, as Portland’s attack, failed to get one past goalkeeper Jane Campbell despite wave after wave of attacks after Houston’s equalizer.
The first half started with what every fan expected–the Thorns dictating the play and bringing danger every time the ball reached Houston’s box. In what appeared that was going to be another show of football for the locals, things took shape in the ninth minute, when Sophia Smith undid Houston’s defense and penetrated all the way to the end line, left of Houston goalie Jane Campbell, her cut back pass found Crystal Dunn free of mark on the penalty spot.
After the goal, Portland kept the pressure on Houston, but lacked precision on the last few yards. On the contrary, a very patient Houston started to find its footing and got comfortable in the match, frustrating the Thorns attack who had lost sharpness the final third, and was having to employ itself harder at a Houston side who started to bring danger to Portland’s box.
To the fans disbelief, Houston’s game paid off in minute 24. Mexican international left winger, Maria Sánchez found the net with a left-footed shot from the left side of the box. The equalizer was a contrast on effectiveness by the Dash to a wasteful Portland attack.
The second half kept the same tone, patience and order for Houston and Portland losing confidence with every missed chance, including hitting the woodwork twice. Houston responded on a few occasions, but not with less danger.
Houston fought for a valuable point in what is probably the most difficult place to play in NWSL, Providence Park, the stronghold of the Portland Thorns. A very valuable point for Houston in a lengthy season. They will be traveling to Audi Field, in District of Columbia, to face Washington Spirit trying to build on the great result in Portland.
Portland, definitely frustrated by dropping a point in a match they surely felt they dominated, will be hosting Racing Louisville, and try to get back at winning. The tie keeps Portland sitting on top of the league pending Washington Spirit’s visit to North Carolina, and San Diego Wave’s match in Seattle against OL Reign.
