Depleted Dash face challenge in Nation’s Capital: What to watch for

(image via Houston Dash)

The Houston Dash continue their away trip with another matinee match as they take on the Washington Spirit today in D.C. The Dash remain at the bottom of the table following their 2-1 loss to NJ/NY Gotham FC last Sunday. Meanwhile, the Spirit, currently in second place, are contending for the top spot after their recent 2-1 victory over the Portland Thorns last weekend.

When: Sunday, September 15 | 12:00 PM CT

Where: Audi Field; Washington, D.C.

TV/Stream: ESPN2 and ESPN+

Depth and Injuries

After a lackluster transfer window, the Dash are struggling with squad depth as they head into the final stretch of the season. Recent games have not gone their way, with Tarciane and Sophie Schmidt suffering heavy knocks in the last match. Amanda West and Ramona Bachmann have also been missing for some time, further depleting the squad and limiting options for impactful substitutions.

Can They Grind for Results?

Since returning from the Summer Cup, the Dash have lost three consecutive games. On a positive note, the team appears more composed and comfortable with the ball. However, they continue to struggle with scoring, defending, and ultimately winning. In their last three games, they have scored only twice while conceding six goals. Although they’ve improved in their system, their main challenge now is to grind out results and secure crucial points.

More Than Rodman

When people think of the Washington Spirit, Trinity Rodman often comes to mind. Assistant coach Ricky Clarke spoke on Saturday about the threat Washington poses on the attack. “Well, all successful teams are successful because they attack together and defend together. For us, it's just about defending as a collective. We are aware of players that can change games. Every team in this league has a player that can change games. We're more concerned about defending as a collective and then when we get the ball, trying to think of ways in which we can cause them problems." While Rodman is a key player, the Spirit are not a one-player team. Ashley Hatch, Andi Sullivan, Ouleymata Sarr, Hal Hershfelt, and Tara McKeown have all played significant roles and pose threats on the field. Unfortunately, Croix Bethune, the team’s leading assist provider, will be sidelined due to injury. The Dash will need to focus on Rodman’s explosiveness but must also be mindful of her talented teammates.

Availability Report

Houston Dash – Out: Katie Lind (maternity leave), Kiki Van Zanten (SEI-foot), Amanda West (D45-knee), Madison Ayson (foot), Ramona Bachmann (thigh) Sophie Schmidt (lower leg), Tarciane (shoulder); Questionable: Natalie Jacobs (thigh)

Washington Spirit– Out: Croix Bethune (SEI - knee), Lyza Bosselmann (SEI - wrist), Anna Heilferty (SEI - knee), Civana Kuhlmann (SEI - knee), Kaylie Collins (upper arm), Chloe Ricketts (knee), Ouleymata Sarr (back), Kate Wiesner (thigh)

Predicted Lineup