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Orlando Pride relies on versatility as backline copes with loss of top defenders

As the Orlando Pride entered their matchup with the potent Chicago Red Stars, they knew their defensive lineup wasn’t their biggest strength.

Orlando fielded a rookie, a midfielder and one of the league’s best right backs playing out of position as a center back linking up against Chicago’s Sam Kerr, the league’s most dangerous goal scorer.

Shelina Zadorsky was the Pride’s only veteran playing in her natural position, but that didn’t matter. Orlando pulled together to clinch a 2-1 victory in Chicago, flexing defensive versatility to pick up its third win of the season.

“If you’re a good player, you can play any position,” Pride coach Marc Skinner said.