Dash in Seattle looking for two wins on West Coast road trip
The Houston Dash head into their final away game of the 2024 season tonight against the Seattle Reign. Despite a recent 2-0 victory over the San Diego Wave, the Dash remains in last place in the NWSL table. They are tied on points with the Reign after Seattle suffered a 3-0 loss to the Utah Royals in their last match.
When: Friday, October 18 | 9:00 PM CT
Where: Lumen Field; Seattle, Washington
TV/Stream: Prime Video
New Goal?
With two games left in the season and sitting at the bottom of the table, what can the Houston Dash strive for? Interim head coach Ricky Clarke emphasized the team's commitment to giving their all in these final matches, aiming to finish the season on a positive note and build momentum for next year. He noted that the players are determined to avoid finishing in last place and want to counter any negative press the team has received lately. The Dash have played well on the West Coast and they need to build some momentum to recover from their recent struggles. While this won’t alter the planned offseason overhaul, it could foster positivity and a hopeful outlook.
Final Away Day
Houston’s away performances this year have been challenging, with wins only against San Diego, Los Angeles, and Bay FC. Despite their poor form on the road, these trips have provided valuable bonding opportunities, as seen on social media where players shared moments of enjoyment. This camaraderie can help alleviate stress from the season and shake off negativity. A refreshed team could be just what they need to boost their performance in the upcoming match to get a result in Seattle.
Struggling in Seattle
The Seattle Reign are experiencing one of the worst stretches in the club’s history. After a rough start to the season, they found some form leading into the Summer Cup, appearing playoff-bound. However, they faltered and have not recovered, now sitting in 13th place—their lowest standing yet. The Dash won the first encounter with the Reign, 1-0, and have a strong chance to secure another victory and complete the season sweep.
Availability Report
Houston Dash – Out: Andressa (lower leg), Elin Rubensson (illness), Katie Lind (maternity leave), Kiki Van Zanten (SEI-foot), Havana Solaun (SEI-knee), Croix Soto (concussion), Ramona Bachmann (excused absence); Questionable: Michelle Alozie (knee), Diana Ordonez (shoulder)
Seattle Reign FC – Out: Ryanne Brown (SEI), Jess Fishlock (leg), Jaelin Howell (suspension), Angharad James-Turner (suspension), Quinn (head), Olivia Van der Jagt (excused absence), Ainsley McCammon (international duty)
Predicted Lineup