Cause She’s Burnin’ Up
After scoring last Saturday against Reign FC, FW Amy Rodriguez moved into third place for the most goals in the National Women’s Soccer League, tied with Christine Sinclair of the Portland Thorns with seven goals. In addition, she has the third-most shots with 38 and the third-most shots on goal with 20. Rodriguez’s seven goals this season are the most scored in a single season in club history. Previously FW Katie Stengel held the record for goals scored in a season with six. However, FW Christen Press is on the heels of Rodriguez, having scored five goals in six games, averaging a goal every 108 minutes, the second-best average in the league only behind Sam Kerr of the Chicago Red Stars.
Just Hold On
Last Saturday FW Katie Stengel scored the opening goal in Utah Royals FC’s 3-1 victory over Reign FC, the goal marked her first this season. Stengel has attempted 23 shots this season, the third-most on the team behind FW Christen Press with 27 and FW Amy Rodriguez with 38. In the past two games Head Coach Laura Harveyhas inputted Stengel into a different role, as part of the starting midfield in place of MF Gunny Jónsdóttir.
Lately She’s Been Feeling So Cool
In the past two games MF Lo’eau LaBonta has played a role in three of the six goals scored by Utah Royals FC. Against Sky Blue FC, LaBonta recorded an assist on FW Christen Press’ second goal of the match, her first assist in a Royals FC uniform. LaBonta was robbed of a second assist against Sky Blue, but an opposing defender was able to incerecept her pass by mere inches, however, the pass still led to a goal from Press. Then against Reign FC LaBonta scored what would prove to be the game-winning goal, her second for Utah Royals FC.
S.O.S
Orlando Pride will be without two players on Saturday due to red cards received during their last game against Houston Dash. Recently signed defender Julie King received the first ejection in the 61st minute for a poor tackle. Then in the 85th minute Brazilian international legend Marta received a red card for an altercation with several Houston players that coincided with a penalty kick, resulting in a goal for the Dash, giving them the 1-0 win.
