Utah Royals FC 0 at Houston Dash 0
March 30, 2018; Houston, Texas; BBVA Compass Stadium
Utah Royals FC (0-0-2, 2 points); Houston Dash (0-0-2, 2 points)
Woman of the Match:
Becky Sauerbrunn continued to demonstrate her talent and dependability on the backline, not allowing Houston a single shot on frame, and blocking four potent attempts in the box. Towards the end of the match, Sauerbrunn also completed a critical tackle against Houston FW Nichelle Prince, keeping a clean slate on the board. As the three-time NWSL defender of the year (2013-2015), Sauerbrunn continues to dominate and command her backline with poise.
Telling Stat:
There are two stats that best summarize the Utah and Houston duel — both in favor of URFC. The first statistic was the dominating possession percentage for the Utah side, with over 66%, compared to Houston’s 34%. The Dash was content to sit back in their defensive third, absorbing offensive pressure for 90+ minutes, including key saves from their GK Jane Campbell. The second telling stat includes the shot on goal ratios, depicting a Houston team that was unable to create a single dangerous opportunity on the frame. Meanwhile, URFC created 10 total shots, with six on frame. Utah Royals FC clearly owned the run of play, but were unable to put balls in the back of the net.
What You Missed:
Three players made their 2018 Utah Royals FC debut, with DF Sydney Miramontez getting the start on the backline. Midfielders Lo’eau LaBonta and Erika Tymrak also subbed into the match, both creating near-goal opportunities towards the end of the match. Meanwhile, six URFC players have played every single minute for the club, including GK Abby Smith, DF Becky Sauerbrunn, DF Rachel Corsie, MF Desiree Scott, MF Gunny Jonsdottir, and FW Diana Matheson.
So What:
Prior to the start of the season, URFC head coach Laura Harvey said she saw her first two away matches as “games to progress” in preparation for the April 14 home opener against the Chicago Red Stars. While the team was unable to get the desired three points, coming away with two ties on the road is not a bad way to start the season. It is also important to note the depth on the URFC bench, with key players like DF Sydney Miramontez stepping into the shoes of Kelley O’Hara — who was out with a hamstring injury — and DF Brooke Elby who subbed in for DF Becca Moros, who suffered an apparent injury in the first half. FW Katie Stengel also made her starting debut for the 2018 season, replacing Elise Thorsnes who was nursing a concussion. Even with three injuries and a player away for international duty (Katrina Gorry with Australia WNT), Utah Royals FC still managed to play well on the road.