Lindsey Horan’s diving header gave Portland the lead but the Thorns could not hold on for all three points as Samantha Staab equalized for the Spirit.
Portland coach Mark Parsons emphasized the importance of controlling the ball while in possession and having a controlled attack in his interview after the match against Chicago. This approach was evident in the first half against the Spirit.
Lindsey Horan was orchestrating the Thorns in possession and the team started to control the match around the 20th minute as Portland tried to play balls in between or behind the Spirit’s backline.