Dash get revenge over North Carolina Courage with dominating win
(image via Diego Martinez)
The Houston Dash clinched their first home victory in nearly a year’s time with an impressive 3-0 triumph over the North Carolina Courage Friday night at Shell Energy Stadium. New-sgining Tarciane made her debut for Houston, marking a memorable start to her tenure with the team. This victory is a significant breakthrough, ending the Dash's winless streak in league play that had persisted since June 3rd, 2023.
Following last week's defeat against the Portland Thorns, head coach Fran Alonso implemented strategic adjustments to ignite a change in the team's performance. The highly anticipated addition of Tarciane saw her inclusion in the squad, displacing Courtney Petersen in the starting eleven. Alonso opted to bring Michelle Alozie into the lineup up front alongside Ramona Bachmann and relegating Diana Ordonez to the bench.
From the outset, the Dash seized control of the game, asserting dominance and dictating the tempo against the Courage. With a high defensive line and newfound confidence stemming from the bolstered backline, the team played with freedom, relentlessly pressuring North Carolina.
Despite the Courage enjoying more possession, they struggled to penetrate the Dash's resolute defense. Meanwhile, the Dash consistently threatened, with Romana Bachmann breaking the deadlock in the 44th minute. Avery Patterson's recovery and swift assist paved the way for Bachmann's clinical finish, granting the Dash a well-deserved 1-0 lead at halftime with her first goal in the NWSL.
The second half saw the Courage attempting to mount a comeback, but their efforts were thwarted by the Dash's solid defense. Although the Dash had fewer opportunities, Barbara Olivieri capitalized on a chance in the 68th minute, extending the lead to 2-0 with a quality strike to beat Courage goalkeeper Casey Murphy.
Not content with a two-goal advantage, the Dash continued to press forward. Diana Ordonez, a former NC Courage forward, made a significant impact after being subbed in for Bachmann. Orchestrating a brilliant play, Tarciane's through ball found Ordonez, who set up Alozie for a shot saved by Murphy. Ordonez capitalized on the rebound, sealing the victory with a third goal in the 78th minute.
The match ended with the Dash claiming the 3-0 victory. This game showcased the Dash's best performance of the season under Fran Alonso's leadership, characterized by their commitment to attacking football. The team's transformation in both playing style and mentality bodes well for future matches, reflecting their potential for continued success.
Following this weekend, the NWSL and the Dash will observe a break during the FIFA international window. The Dash will resume league play on the road on June 7th, facing Racing Louisville in an anticipated matchup that will be streamed on NWSL+.
