One afternoon last month, Marta, a star forward for the Orlando Pride, let loose a ringing shot from near midfield that sailed into the net for a remarkable goal. It might have been one of the top highlights of the season, and a viral advertisement for a young league looking to grow.
Afterward, Portland Thorns goalkeeper Bella Bixby took to Twitter and expressed a sentiment that has circulated among some players and fans this season: “Movement, formations, etc. are so important to see, and half the time I can’t even see the goal go in the freaking net.