The Dash tie defending champions Portland Thorns 1-1 in Houston

Portland Thorns vs Houston Dash May, 9 2018 (Photo by Jose Castellanos).

The Orange, back home after getting their first win of the season at Sky Blue, struggled in the first half of the match, but came back with an excellent second half to get an important point at home.

Portland dominated the action during the first 45 minutes as they pressured Houston in the final third. Houston struggled to control the ball and therefore in creating opportunities to open the score were close to none. The west coast team had a good performance, especially by Tobin Heath, who connected with Lindsey Horan at midfield. Heath, who has never played at Houston before, created many chances for her side to score.

Thorns forward Ana Crnogorcevic would open the scored in the 25th when she found and finished a loose ball inside the box. After the goal, the visiting side continue pressuring the Dash. However, they were not creating clear chances to score.

Houston’s defender Amber Brooks, who has been having a solid season, took control of the defense and organized the back line, making Portland uncomfortable on offense.

The positive side for Houston during the first half was that coach Vera Pauw seemed to have finally found an ideal starting 11. Kristie Mewis and Rachel Daly play in the offensive side now, both started the season playing as right and left back, respectively. Also, having Kyah Simon healthy and in good shape was a key component for Houston on the offensive side.

During the second half everything turned around for Houston. The Dash took control of the ball and used the sides to create chances to score the equalizer. This strategy paid off early in the second half for the home team as Simon scored at the 57th minute, her first goal with the team, to tie for the final 1-1.

The Dash had some chances to win the match, but finishing the plays is something Pauw’s team needs to keep working on.

Now, Houston will be visiting Chicago for the second time this year. On the other side, Portland will be hosting Orlando. Both matches are on May 12^th.