By Marilia Macedo
On Saturday, September 24, at PNC Stadium, the OL Reign visited and beat the Houston Dash in a 0-2 win.
Laura Harvey chose to start the match with Jessica Fishlock and Megan Rapinoe at Starting XI - both came in during the second half of the previous game against Gotham and set up the play that induced the penalty kick and, consequently, the winning goal for the Seattle team.
Even though they were on the field, OL found it difficult on the pitch, while Dash worked to connect some good passes and attack more from the left.
Nevertheless, the visitors were more efficient: when regaining the ball, Rapinoe, skillful as always, managed to get it to the area, and Bethany Balcer could convert in the 28', 0-1.
Later, both sides created promising opportunities, but goalkeepers Tullis-Joyce and Jane Campbell - in her 100th game wearing the Dash jersey - could block the attempts.
After the break, the home team kept possession and put Reign under pressure. In a good chance, Schmidt attempted from outside the area, and the keeper had to stretch herself to save.
Then, in a free kick from the right, Sánchez left-footed and hit the crossbar, which Tullis would not be able to reach.
The teams started to get more physical in the midfield, the number of fouls increased during the second half, and the referee started handing out yellow cards - maybe for not keeping a cool head, Houston couldn't find a way to the equalizer.
On the other hand, in the 76', Laura Harvey's squad managed to take advantage and doubled the scoring when Huitema fought for the ball and passed to Rose Lavelle, but her shot hit the crossbar. However, Latsko was there to send it to the back of the net, 0-2.
In the end, the final whistle announced three points for the Bold, and they will go to the playoffs.
For the next game before the playoffs, OL Reign will play against the Pride on Saturday, October 1, at 10 PM ET, while Houston Dash will face the Spirit, on the same day, at 7 PM ET.
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