Portland Thorns met Angel City in a game that saw multiple shots on target from both teams, but key saves resulted in a 1-1 draw. Angel City was off to a quick start drawing a foul in the first minute. Midfielder Savannah McCaskill took the penalty kick which was deflected by Portland’s goalkeeper Shelby Hogan. Hogan deflected the initial kick but was unable to maintain control of the ball, allowing McCaskill the opportunity to rush the goal and score off of a rebound in the second minute.
Both teams had several key players absent from the roster due to international duty. However, ACFC had the assistance of their newly acquired player forward Sydney Leroux. A trade that equally devastated Orlando Pride fans and energized Angel City, particularly after Christen Press’ season ending injury. The sound of the 17,492 fans that poured into Banc of California Stadium soared as Leroux came onto the pitch. Leroux scored the lone goal for the Pride when ACFC and Orlando last met, causing Angel City to fall on their home turf. Today’s match saw Leroux subbed in at the 64th minute. While she had several skillful touches, creating opportunities and driving motion forward, the goal that fans were dying to see ultimately eluded her.
Angel City was able to hold off the Thorn’s attack up until the 95th minute when Midfielder Yazmeen Ryan scored an equalizer, tying the game. With only one minute left of stoppage time Angel City was unable to create another scoring opportunity, leaving the game in a draw, earning a point for both teams. The Portland Thorns meet OL Reign Sunday July 10th at Lumen Field. Angel City hosts the San Diego Wave Saturday July 9th, in the highly anticipated first regular season matchup coined the So Cal Rivalry. When asked about the upcoming match Leroux says, “I think it’s a huge game. I think we can definitely get three points. That’s what we are gonna go for. But it should be fun.”
Written by Haley Becerra
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