The Washington Spirit’s first road game of 2019 didn’t quite go as they’d have liked, as Utah Royals FC emerged 1-0 winners before a crowd of 18,015 at Rio Tinto Stadium tonight. Lo’eau LaBonta’s 10th minute goal turned out to be a game-winner, though USWNT attackers Christen Press, Mallory Pugh, and Rose Lavelle all had chances of their own.
Utah, who were the odd team out during the NWSL’s opening weekend, came out with plenty of intensity, high-pressing the Spirit relentlessly. Christen Press ended up firing a shot over the bar in the 3rd minute as a result, and Vero Boquete forced a turnover from the ensuing goal kick that forced Aubrey Bledsoe off her line to claim.