Sunday saw Angel City FC host the Chicago Red Stars. Both teams sit in the 6th and 7th seats respectively. The three points available would mean minimizing or creating a comfortable gap in the narrowing window prior to playoffs. This was the first ever meeting for the teams, both of which have several key players out on injury or illness. Including United States National Team member and Golden Boot contender Mallory Pugh of the Red Stars. Despite having their leading scorer out, Chicago’s first scoring opportunity was a ripping shot from the center of the box in the 6th by Vanessa DiBernardo. While statistically the teams remained on par, the first half saw many opportunities taken by ACFC’s attacking line. Including multiple headers by forward Simone Charley. The almost sold out crowd repeatedly chanting her name, aching to see her get one past US Olympic and World Cup medalist Alyssa Naeher. Naeher was able to hold off all attacks leaving the score 0-0 at the half.
The second half followed in much the way of the first; with both teams exchanging possession and trading shots on target. The lone goal of the night went to midfielder Savannah McCaskill. The ball chipped in from the right by Claire Emslie directly in front of a charging Charley and McCaskill, the two matching direction and speed down the center of the box with ultimately McCaskill getting the final touch and sending it over Naeher’s sliding save attempt. Following the goal in the 48th the two teams displayed clear strategies. Chicago, hoping to equalize, subbed all three of their forwards with fresh legs, while ACFC’s objective was to maintain the lead. Both of the starting 11 forwards exited the match to be substituted with two midfielders. The Red Stars began a painstaking process of chipping away at Angel City’s back line. ACFC’s defensive line met the repeated challenges posed predominately by forwards Rachel Hill and Sarah Griffith. McCaskill, “We’ve talked about being able to close out games all season long…we dominated for the first 65 minutes and then were able to protect that lead in the last 25 minutes of the game.”
The Chicago Red Stars continue their time on the road meeting the North Carolina Courage at WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday August 20th. Angel City FC will seek to repeat their season opener and defeat Kansas City Current Friday August 19th.
Written by Haley Becerra
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