In the first half, the Orlando Pride created most chances in attack and had full control of the tempo of the game. The Pride created but lacked on finishing the attacking play. Houston attempted going for the counter-play unsuccessfully in several opportunities. Rafa and Haley McCutcheon were spot-on defensively in this half. Erika Tymrak, Kerry Abello, and Adriana had a superb first half. Tymrak generated attacking plays in transition and was the glue that held the Pride’s attack. Marta seemed frustrated after Messiah Bright was not able to connect with her and passed the ball back into possession. After the Pride dominated throughout the first half, Houston almost stunned Orlando with a shot that hit the post at the death of the first half. Overall, a great first half by the Pride.
In the second half, Houston went onto the attacking onslaught, and attempted to create dangerous plays, those were easily neutralized by the Pride’s defense. Great second half by Haley McCutcheon and Kylie Strom. In the 55th minute, the best player on the pitch, Erika Tymrak, was subbed out for Ally Watt. After that subsitution, the Pride lost creativity and play creation on the attacking third. While Ally Watt provided fresher legs and speed to the Pride’s right flank, Kerry Abello took on Tymrak’s role but she did not have the same impact. Kerry was more of a defensive minded mid and not a chance creating one. Marta’s momentum on the other hand started to dwindle and minutes were passing by without the Pride scoring one single goal. It seemed the season was coming to an end with this result. In the 87th minute, after a beautiful 1v1 play by Marta, Orlando Pride was awarded a penalty and Marta scored beautifully. After Marta’s goal, Orlando had plenty of chances to score a couple more at least, but those chances again were wasted. Unfortunately, despite this being the season with the most home wins for the Orlando Pride, they were not able to clinch playoffs. Angel City defeated the Thorns and Gotham drew against KC. Gotham advanced due to goal difference. Regardless, kudos to a Pride team that never gave up. We are confident this squad has what it takes to clinch playoffs next season and be the talk of the league.
Until next season. Vamos Orlando!
