Sky Blue FC was unable to capitalize on enticing chances in each half and needed a couple of key saves from Kailen Sheridan to open their NWSL Challenge Cup campaign with a scoreless draw Tuesday night.
In a battle of coaches making their team debuts — Freya Coombe for Sky Blue FC and Farid Benstiti for Ol Reign FC — both teams were content to settle for a slower paced defensive battle at the start with a few scattered chances. Some lovely combination play did nearly put Sky Blue in front late in the first half when Sabrina Flores connected with Nahomi Kawasumi but Reign defender Lauren Barnes was able to recovery in time to block the shot attempt.