Dash host reigning champion Gotham FC in midweek clash: What to watch for
(image via Houston Dash)
The Houston Dash face a quick turnaround as they return to Shell Energy Stadium for a midweek clash with the reigning NWSL Champions, NJ/NY Gotham FC. Sitting in 13th place, the Dash scraped a point from their recent encounter with rivals Kansas City Current on Sunday in a 1-1 draw. Gotham, currently in 10th place, broke their recent winless streak with a 1-0 win against the North Carolina Courage Saturday.
When: Wednesday, May 8 | 7:00 PM CT kickoff
Where: Shell Energy Stadium; Houston, Texas
TV/Stream: NWSL+/Space City Home Network 2
Quick Turnaround
Following a grueling Sunday match with a lenghty weather delay, the Dash find themselves back on the pitch just three days later against the reigning NWSL Champions. Anticipate head coach Fran Alonso to shuffle his squad, aiming to distribute minutes and minimize the risk of further injuries. With players returning from knocks, this presents an opportunity to field those who haven't seen much action this season. Additionally, the Dash have another away fixture looming this weekend when they travel to Los Angeles to face Angel City FC on Sunday evening.
Opportunity Knocks
The reigning NWSL champions have stumbled out of the gate this season despite an impressive off-season bolstered by high-profile transfers. Hindered by injuries and disappointing results, Gotham FC presents an opportunity for the Dash to secure their first home victory of the season. Though Gotham boasts quality and depth, current form suggests the outcome is anyone's guess. It's an ideal moment for Alonso and his team to regroup and seize all three points.
Old Friends, New Rivals
It's no secret that Alonso shares a close relationship with Gotham FC head coach and former Dash interim head coach Juan Carlos Amoros. Fran humorously quipped in his pre-match press conference that their friendship will be set aside for the ninety minutes of play. Amoros has tasted success in the NWSL with both the Dash and Gotham. Intriguingly, both Spanish coaches favor an attacking style of play, emphasizing high pressing and offensive prowess over defensive caution. This matchup serves as a litmus test for Alonso's tactical acumen against a fellow proponent of attacking football in the NWSL.
Availability Report
Houston Dash – Out: Allysha Chapman (maternity leave), Ryan Gareis (meternity leave), Katie Lind (maternity leave), Cece Kizer (concussion), Havana Solaun (knee), Kiki Van Zanten (SEI - foot)
NJ/NY Gotham FC – Out: Tierna Davidson (thigh), Katie Stengel (thigh), Kelly O’Hara (knee), Midge Purce (SEI - knee), Taylor Smith (SEI - thigh), Abby Smith (SEI - lower leg), McCall Zerboni (SEI - knee), Svava Gudmundsdottir (excused absence); Questionable: Kristen Edmonds (knee)
Predicted Lineup
