Loud & Proud Orlando

Orlando Pride obtained a valuable draw against Gotham FC for the NWSL Challenge Cup. In the first half, the Pride had the momentum and were the first ones to open the goal count, stunning Gotham in their own stadium in front of their fans. In the second, half it was all Gotham and Orlando’s backline delivered. For this game, Coach Cromwell made significant changes to the starting lineup. Kerry Abello got her first start and Jonsdottir and James were in their starting lineup after playing with their respective national teams. This game was also a goalkeeper showdown since both Kaylie Collins and Ashlyn Harris had monster saves throughout the game.

In the first half, Orlando Pride dominated possession from the get go. But, silly turnovers, gave Gotham the tools to create transition attacking plays. Kristie Mewis and Ifeoma Onumonu created chances for Gotham and Kaylie Collins came up big for the Pride with two wonderful saves. In the 10th minute, Gunny Jonsdottir scored a Golazo for the Pride. Personally, It was great to see her score, since she has been a true leader for this squad and also has been playing on a high level consistently since last year. The goal came about after a superb cross of a corner kick from James and Gunny did a quick flip header to beat Ashlyn Harris. Jonsdottir’s goal created for the Pride’s momentum to skyrocket and look solid offensively. Leah Pruitt and James, were influential in the attacking third. The Pride were not able to finish off those opportunities and Gotham’s momentum started to grow. Onumonu and Monaghan (Gotham) started to display their offensive prowess while Orlando’s backline started to give in into pressure. Also, Orlando Pride had some chances of set pieces, thanks to Kerry Abello. Orlando did not advantage of those chances. In the 45th minute, Orlando’s backline gave in and the ref called out a penalty for Gotham. Onumonu carried the ball past Pressley and the center back went for the foul. Kristie Mewis without flinching, scored a Golazo. Both teams went to half time leveled at 1-1. In the terms of stats, momentum and level of play, Orlando Pride delivered against a Gotham team that demonstrated to be a major contender for the NWSL championship.

In the second half, it was all Gotham. Harris and company came out swinging and they were high pressing the Pride, forcing them to make mistakes and turn over the ball. Onumonu and Monaghan the best players in the game for Gotham, without a doubt. Both were creating plays on both flanks, having Orlando’s backline in check. The Pride, created some chances, through the feet of Kerry Abello that had another superb game. As well, Darian Jenkins had a shot on goal that went close. As Gotham, developed a full force attack against the Pride, the backline held on and was able to contain their chances superbly. Gotham had chances to put the game away but again, they were not able to capitalize.

In post press conference, Coach Cromwell mentioned “I thought we started really well, getting the ball early. We’ve been working a lot on set plays and being more dangerous, especially on corner kicks, so that (goal) was really encouraging. I thought our possession was really good and we had a lot of confidence. This game is funny, you need to follow that up with getting a second one to continue the confidence building. We gave up the penalty right before half so that set the stage for the second half, not being able to keep it like we were but we were really shorthanded today. We were dealing with some injuries during the game, as well, so I was really proud of the effort. I thought Kaylie (Collins) in goal was spectacular so I’m really proud of some of the bright spots tonight. And we got a point so you have to celebrate the little wins, even the ties.”

Orlando Pride’s first half was magical and stunned Gotham in many ways. In the second half, it was Orlando’s backline and Gotham’s lack of finishing that kept the game leveled throughout 90 minutes. Orlando Pride will look past their participation in the 2022 NWSL Challenge Cup, and focus on its regular season that starts May 1st against Gotham at Exploria Stadium.