Game at a Glance: URFC vs. SEA
Utah Royals FC 0, Seattle Reign FC 1
July 11, 2018; Seattle, WA; Memorial Stadium
Utah Royals FC (5-5-6, 21 points); Seattle Reign FC (8-3-5, 29 points)
Woman of the Match
DF Sam Johnson had big shoes to fill after the announcement of captain Sauerbrunn’s injury – but the pressure didn’t seem to bother the newly acquired trade. Johnson played the full 90, registering four stellar tackles and leading the team in blocked shots. Her defensive pressure and unique playing style seemed to mesh well with the new squad, only allowing Seattle a single shot on frame. Her tenacity and work under pressure qualifies Johnson for Wednesday’s “Woman of the Match.”
Telling Stat
Much like the last time these two teams met, most of the game statistics were pretty even. Possession was a near draw, and the shot-to-big chance ratio was almost identical – so what made the difference? Seattle capitalized on their single shot on frame -- giving the Seattle side the 1-0 victory off of a Megan Rapinoe header in the 54’ minute. Meanwhile, URFC did not register a single shot on target.
What You Missed
Wednesday’s match was the first-time Utah has ever played at Memorial Stadium in the Seattle Center. Not only did the team play in one of the oldest stadiums in the country (constructed in 1947), but also competed in the shadow of Seattle’s iconic space needle.
So, What:
The loss greatly decreases Utah’s chances of making the play-offs in September, but there is still a chance for tournament action if the team can win the next two home matches at Rio Tinto Stadium. Upcoming games against Orlando and N.C. Courage mean that Laura Harvey can still clench a top-four ranking on the table. See it for yourself this Saturday at 5:00 p.m. MT at Rio Tinto Stadium, or catch it live on ESPNW and 100.7 FM.
