Seattle, WA – The OL Reign returned to NWSL regular season play with a two-goal victory over the slumping North Carolina Courage. There was plenty of exciting build up for this match, as Kim Little and Tobin Heath were available for selection, and the Reign were celebrating their pride match. Since their May 22nd draw with the Washington Spirit, the Reign have played in six matches, only losing one. With the additions of Kim Little and Tobin Heath to the fold, this club can seemingly only get better. The match also was the second highest attended in Reign history, at 7,519.
Former Reign player Carson Pickett kicks off (Photo Marriah Menchaca)
Return of Kim Little
Some of the biggest news surrounding the Reign, and there has been a lot, is the return of Kim Little. While Little is on loan till about early to mid-August, her return will be impactful due to the loss of several key players who are on international duty. The Reign are going to see if they can extend the loan, as Little’s arrival was delayed due to the VISA process.
Little played the first half of the match, receiving a 6.8 match rating from FotMob. Despite the match rating, Little had a 94% pass percentage and created two chances offensively. There were definitely some positives in the game for the Scottish midfielder in her 21 touches, including an accurate long ball and five recoveries. Once she gets some more practice with the club and gets more integrated, expect to see Little’s impact felt heavily.
Jess Fishlock brings the ball up (Photo Liz Wolter)
Balcer-Fishlock connection
Bethany Balcer and Jess Fishlock made their impacts felt in this match. The 2021 NWSL MVP and the 2019 NWSL rookie of the year both recorded a goal and assist in the match, assisting on each other's goals.
In the 51st minute, Balcer sent a curling pass into the box to lead Fishlock, who was able to take a touch to the side to steer past Courage keeper Katelyn Rowland. Fishlock tapped it in to give the Reign a lead they would not surrender. In the 74th minute, Fishlock sent a ball through the defense to Balcer at the midway point of the box. Balcer had one touch, smashing the ball past Rowland for the second goal of the night.
Bethany Balcer celebrates her goal (Photo Mel Levin)
This is a solid result for the Reign, who were without eight players due to international play. The club has been building on the talent it has by getting solid minutes together, but that may take a hit considering the losses of several critical players to their respective teams.
Thank you to Mel Levin, Liz Wolter, Marriah Menchaca, and Liv Lyons!
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