Dash hit bump on the road in Louisville
(image via Houston Dash)
The Houston Dash faced a setback on the road Friday night, succumbing to a 2-0 defeat against Racing Louisville following their return from the FIFA International break.
Head coach Fran Alonso implemented adjustments due to injuries and player unavailability caused by international travel during the two-week hiatus. Tarciane maintained her position on defense, while Courtney Petersen substituted for Ramona Bachmann on the wing due to the latter's injury sustained during an international match with Switzerland. Additionally, Andressa took over from Amanda West to offer a different dynamic in the forward line.
At the start of the match, the Dash appeared disorganized, allowing Racing Louisville to capitalize with an early shot on goal in the 5th minute. This served as a wake-up call for Houston, prompting them to assert control by dominating possession, applying pressure on Louisville, and confining them to their own half.
The Dash had their first significant opportunity in the 20th minute when Avery Patterson surged down the wing and cut inside to take a shot on goal, only to be thwarted by Katie Lund's easy block. Despite managing just one shot on target in the first half, Houston maintained dominance through relentless pressing, preventing Louisville from establishing their rhythm.
In the second half, the Dash continued their aggressive approach, pressing Louisville deep into their territory. The match sparked to life in the 60th minute when Uchenna Kanu fouled Patterson on the edge of the box. Barbara Olivieri delivered a cross into the box, finding Paige Nielsen who delicately chipped the ball over the crossbar.
Shortly after, Lund initiated a counterattack for Louisville, catching the Dash off guard. Emma Sears received the ball and swiftly passed to Kanu, who made a shot on goal. Savannah DeMelo capitalized on the rebound from Jane Campbell’s save, slotting the ball into the top corner to break the deadlock in the 62nd minute.
The game opened up for both teams, with the Dash pushing for an equalizer while Louisville aimed to maintain or extend their lead, which they successfully accomplished.
In the dying minutes of the match, DeMelo played a pivotal role for Louisville. In the 87th minute, DeMelo delivered a well-placed cross into the 18-yard box, finding Parker Goins who headed the ball past Jane Campbell to secure Louisville's 2-0 victory.
The Dash failed to create many chances and capitalize on their opportunities. While they initially struggled to create chances earlier in the season, they must now focus on converting those chances into goals.
The Dash will return home next Saturday, June 15, to face Angel City FC at 8:30 PM, with the match televised on ION TV.
