Dash look to close season strong under another interim head coach
(image via Houston Dash)
The Houston Dash will are back at Shell Energy Stadium for a match up with the Chicago Red Stars. Houston was beaten 3-1 last weekend in a visit to the league-leading Orlando Pride.
When: Friday, October 4 | 6:30 PM CT
Where: Shell Energy Stadium; Houston, Texas
TV/Stream: NWSL+
Another New Chapter
Here we go again. It was officially announced this week that the club parted ways with head coach Fran Alonso by mutual agreement. What does this mean for the club? Is it the start of a brand-new chapter, or are we looking at the same old story? In some ways, it is a fresh beginning, as the Alonso saga has concluded. The club plans to hire a new general manager to select the next head coach. However, many questions about the club's direction remain unanswered, and given their track record, things don’t look particularly promising. One can only hope they have learned from the past and are ready to move forward.
Game by Game
Rather than focusing on the club's future, interim head coach Ricky Clarke is concentrating on a game-by-game approach. The priority is today’s match and the next opponent, with the goal of securing three points. The team has faced various challenges this season, including injuries, but Clarke emphasized the importance of concentrating on the upcoming match and what they need to achieve their objectives. Playoffs are not on their radar. The best thing they can do now is give their home-supporting fans reasons to return to the stadium and continue their support.
One-Woman Team?
When many think of the Chicago Red Stars, they automatically think of Mallory Swanson. It’s understandable; she has been the driving force behind the club's attacking efforts. However, it's unfair to label the Red Stars as a one-woman team. They boast a strong supporting cast around Swanson. Julia Grosso has bolstered the midfield, Ludmila has played off Swanson to create opportunities, and Natalia Kuikka has solidified the backline. Additionally, USWNT starting goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher can be difficult to score against on her best days. The Dash have a significant challenge ahead, especially with several players still sidelined due to injury.
Availability Report
Houston Dash – Out: Katie Lind (maternity leave), Kiki Van Zanten (SEI-foot), Amanda West (D45-knee), Natalie Jacobs (concussion), Havana Solaun (SEI-knee), Croix Soto (concussion)
Chicago Red Stars – Out: Ava Cook (SEI), Sam Staab (SEI), Sarah Griffith (ankle), Leilanni Nesbeth (ankle)
Predicted Lineup
