Portland Thorns Defeat Seattle Despite Two Red Cards in NWSL Opener
The Portland Thorns showcased resilience in their NWSL season opener, defeating the Seattle Reign 2-0 despite facing significant challenges. The match marked a remarkable start for the Thorns under new head coach Robert Vilahamn, who began his tenure just days before the game.
Key Match Details
- Date: March 13, 2023
- Venue: Providence Park, Portland
- Crowd: 21,321 attendees, a record for a Thorns home opener
Crucial Goals and Events
Critical goals in the first half set the tone for the match. Pietra Tordin opened the scoring in the 28th minute, capitalizing on a corner delivered by Olivia Moultrie. Less than ten minutes later, Tordin assisted Reilyn Turner, doubling the lead in the 37th minute.
The Thorns played with a numerical disadvantage for most of the match. Young midfielder Cassandra Bogere received two yellow cards within the opening minutes and was sent off in the 9th minute. This left the Thorns to fend off Seattle for the remainder of the game with just nine players.
Defensive Standout Performance
Despite the challenges, Portland’s defense remained steadfast. Particularly notable was goalkeeper Morgan Messner, who made four crucial saves for her second consecutive shutout. Messner’s performance was commendable as it marked her first regular-season appearances in the NWSL, stepping in due to teammate absences.
In a further challenge, defender Reyna Reyes received a straight red card in the 57th minute after a video review ruled her conduct as violent. The Thorns maintained their composure, withstanding a barrage of 17 shots from Seattle, four of which were on target.
Coaching Insights and Player Development
Coach Vilahamn praised his team’s bravery and composure under pressure. He acknowledged the rarity of facing two red cards in a single match, emphasizing the necessity of strategic adaptation. Tordin reflected on the match, stating the team reached a “flow state,” allowing them to perform despite being shorthanded.
Future Challenges
Looking ahead, the Thorns will face the San Diego Wave, continuing their challenging 30-game schedule for the season. This represents a new phase for the NWSL, with the introduction of additional teams, including Boston and Denver, enhancing the competitive landscape.
The match against Seattle also marked a significant moment for the Thorns, being their first regular-season contest against their rivals since 2013. The strong start under new leadership signals a promising season ahead for the Portland Thorns.
