Last night, Utah Royals FC center backs Becky Sauerbrunn and Rachel Corsie clashed in an international friendly in Scotland. Both played the full 90, Sauerbrunn in the back for team USA and Corsie in the back, wearing the captain armband for Scotland. The U.S. shut out Scotland 1-0 and finished the 2018 season undefeated.
In the first half, the U.S. fired two quick shots, but both were rejected by the defense of DF Rachel Corsie. In the 39th minute, the U.S. ended up with the first goal off a cross from FW Mallory Pugh to FW Alex Morgan for a first-time volley. Scotland did not seek many chances at goal in the first half, but managed to only be down one at the break.
Scotland came out with an attacking mentality and created an early opportunity in the second half, but the attempt was denied by a block from U.S. DF Becky Sauerbrunn. In the 62nd minute, FW Mallory Pugh drew a foul in the penalty box and MF Carli Llyod stepped up to take the penalty kick for the U.S. Llyod hit the crossbar and missed the free shot.
Scotland generated more opportunities in the second half and fought to equalize, but could not put the ball in the back of the net before the final whistle.
Stats: USA/Scotland
Shots: 10/8
Shots on goal: 3/2
Corner Kicks: 5/6
Fouls: 7/10
Now, the U.S. and Scotland will await the 2019 season in preparation for the FIFA World Cup in France next summer.
