Prior to the match, Red Stars’ Katie Johnson said that Chicago was excited to play against Portland without the Rose City Riveters cheering them on. She alluded to the fact that the Thorns may not have as much energy without the fans.
Thorns coach Mark Parson made it clear that his team would be energized and he would make sure her words were posted in the locker room to provide Portland with motivation.
Both teams rotated heavily which provided younger players the opportunity to get more experience while resting some veterans. The Thorns came out energized and looking to dominate the rotated Chicago midfield.