The Orlando Pride won their third game in a row by beating San Diego Wave FC 2-1 at Inter&Co Stadium.
Haley McCutcheon scored first for the Pride, then Chiamaka Okwuchukwu tied the game in the 62nd minute. Marta scored a penalty in the 76th minute to secure the win. Rafaelle was out due to injury, and Cori Dyke stepped in, moving Emily Sams to center back.
The goalkeeper was Anna Moorhouse with defenders Kerry Abello, Kylie Nadaner, Sams, and Dyke. In midfield were Haley McCutcheon and Morgan Gautrat with Angelina, Marta, and Ally Watt in front. Barbra Banda was the forward.
The first half was slow with few chances, but the Pride were more aggressive in the second half. Pride’s Head Coach Seb Hines stressed the importance of a quick start, leading to a scoring opportunity within a minute.
Wave also had some chances early on. Tide changed in the second half with more action. The Pride controlled possession, but Wave made some substitutions that deepened the game.
San Diego had the lead in passing at halftime. The second half was more intense, with Pride taking the lead with a goal from McCutcheon.
McCutcheon has scored in four straight home games. VAR reviewed and allowed San Diego’s goal, tying the game.
Marta successfully converted a penalty kick after an earlier miss to put the Pride ahead.
Orlando has started the season strong with three wins and a goal difference of 10-1.
Their next game is against Seattle Reign FC on April 12.
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