KC Current started the season with a perfect record, winning all five of their initial games to become the first NWSL team to achieve an eight-game winning streak in the regular season, building on the previous season. Meanwhile, Orlando Pride held the top position in the table but lost its fifth game against the Washington Spirit and its seventh game against the Portland Thorns.
Seattle Reign 1 – 0 KC Current
The Seattle Reign registered their second win in seven games after securing a hard-earned victory against the table leaders, KC Current. Statistically, KC Current had the upper hand, with 13 shots taken and three on target compared to Seattle Reign’s limited total of five shots, of which only two were on target. Lynn Biyendolo, the national team’s and Seattle Reign’s forward, forced a corner kick against KC Current in the 36th minute, which was taken by Lauren Barnes. She successfully found the back of the net with a header from Jordyn Huitema into the bottom right corner. This marked her first goal for the Seattle Reign.
The Seattle Reign currently sits in seventh place with three wins, two draws, and two losses. This victory at their home, Lumen Field, was significant. Claudia Dickey, the Reign’s goalkeeper, achieved her second season shutout with a stellar performance, making tough saves and accumulating 22 saves, tying her for the second most saves in the NWSL. This weekend, they will face the 12th-placed team, the Houston Dash.
Portland Thorns 1 – 0 Orlando Pride
The Portland Thorns were intent on attacking and exhausting the Pride’s defense, finishing the game with 16 shots, seven of which were on target, and one converted into a goal in the 16th minute by Reyna Reyes. This marked their third win in eight games played. Reyes shot from just outside the penalty box into the right side of the goal, giving the Portland Thorns an early lead. The Pride’s efforts to equalize proved futile against the solid defense they faced. Most of their shots were blocked by defenders, and keeper Mackenzie Arnold made four saves.
The Portland Thorns now maintain an unblemished record against the Pride in home games, achieving six consecutive victories at home against them. Reyes, a defender, secured her second regular-season goal in the NWSL, marking her first goal of 2023. This weekend, they will play an away game against the San Diego Wave FC on May 10.
Games This Weekend
The games continue this weekend, May 8-10, into match day eight.
Friday
Racing Louisville vs. Gotham FC
Angel City FC vs. Utah Royals FC
Saturday
Chicago Stars vs. Washington Spirit
San Diego Wave vs. Portland Thorns
North Carolina Courage vs. Orlando Pride
Sunday
KC Current vs. Bay FC
Seattle Reign vs. Houston Dash
