Houston Dash lost their home opener against the Chicago Red Stars on Sunday night.
The first match of the 2022 NWSL Challenge Cup did not go as plan for the Houston Dash. The Texas team lost at home against Red Stars 3-1. Mallory Pugh scored twice and became the best player of the match.
The match started well for the Orange. The Dash opened the score when Katie Naughton took advantage of a deflection from Chicago’s goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher and put it in the back of the net at the 19’. After Houston took the lead, they tried to control the possession of the ball, but Chicago’s attack was very dynamic and made things difficult for the home side.
Courtesy of Houston Dash
Only eight minutes after Houston’s goal, Chicago tied things up 1-1. Mallory Pugh took advantage of a great pass to face Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell and beat her to score the equalizer.
Chicago continued to attack as they have controlled the ball and looked closer to get another goal. However, at the half, the partial score was still 1-1.
On the second half, things were pretty much the same as the first one. Red Stars were determined to get three points in Texas.
On the other side, Houston was trying to get something build up in offense. Maria Sanchez, Rachel Daly, Shea Groom, and Nichelle Prince had some chances, but they were not as clear as they would hope for. On the defensive side, they were struggling because Chicago front line was fast.
At the 58’ Chicago took the lead when Arin Wright scored a PK. Mallory Pugh scored the final 3-1 two minutes later after a great shot from outside the box.
After the win, Chicago sits on top of the standings with three points in the Central Division. They will host now the Kansas City Current. The Dash on the other side will travel to Kentucky to play against Racing Louisville. Both matches will be play on March 25.
