As players began to depart for the World Cup, coach Mark Parsons defined his three major areas of preparation going into the 2019 NWSL season and how they would carry Portland’s rotating cast through a span of major absences. Parsons emphasized sticking to club principals, as well as looking at “the opposition and where we can either hurt them, take advantage, or slow them down,” explaining that both have been regions of focus during his time with the Thorns. This year, specifically, he spoke to the need “to build around the qualities of our players and the personalities of our players on the pitch,” something especially vital in a season where the players and personalities available are changing on a weekly basis.
Delving into defense: A look at Portland’s dynamic backline
