By: Jay Kostal
A Deeper Look into the Individual Defensive Efforts
The Royals faced a long match after a tough VAR decision saw the center referee award a straight red card to Utah’s captain Paige Cronin in the 11th minute. Things went from bad to worse once a second VAR intervention saw midfielder Ana Tejada sent off in the 24th minute for a foul in the box. Former Royals attacker Ally Sentnor converted the penalty kick to give the visiting side the lead.
Down to nine, the Royals were forced to reshuffle the defense to see out the remainder of the half and get into the locker room without conceding another goal. Unfortunately for Jameese Joseph, she was subbed just minutes into her home debut as Tatumn Milazzo entered the match to reinforce the backline.
The Royals’ ironwoman Kate Del Fava took command of organizing the team while preventing the opposition from creating another threatening chance. She delivered a standout defensive performance, leading the match in defensive contributions with 13, while tallying ten clearances and two blocks.
Veteran defenders Kaleigh Riehl and Milazzo also played key roles, tying for the second-most defensive contributions. Both recorded two tackles and one interception, while Riehl added four clearances, and Milazzo ended the game with the second-most blocks in the match.
In the true spirit of the Royals, forward Cece Delzer made a significant impact on the defensive end, leading both teams with four tackles and maintaining the urgent pressure around the edge of the box as Angel City pushed numbers up.
Right before stoppage time of the first half, USWNT goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn would make a brilliant diving save to her right to deny a shot from rippling the top left of the net. The veteran shot stopper had complete control of her penalty area in the first, preventing multiple crosses from finding an opponent in the box. McGlynn would end the match by adding seven total saves to her impressive 211 NWSL career saves.
“I think to go into halftime 1-0, I saw some grit, some fight, and I don’t mind it,”
Head Coach Jimmy Coenraets commented what he liked from the Royals’ first half performance.
What’s Next
Utah Royals face off against North Carolina Courage in a clash between two top table teams hoping for a playoff home field advantage. The match is scheduled for Sunday, September 27th at America First Field with kickoff set for 5:00 p.m. MT. Tickets are available here.
URFC Next Home Match: 9/27 @ America First Field
URFC takes on North Carolina Courage at home on Swig Sunday $3 drinks at the stadium! Secure your seats for an unforgettable match at America First Field.
