When Christen Press was traded to Utah Royals FC in 2018, she joined mid-season, appearing in 11 games and scoring 2 goals. Stats-wise and Royals FC missing the playoffs, it left many fans wondering if the trade had been worth it (think Utah giving up a ton of draft picks to the Chicago Red Stars).
Then, came 2019.
At the season and home opener, Press began the 2019 NWSL season with an assist to Lo’eau LaBonta’s goal in the 1–0 vs. the Washington Spirit. In the second game of the season, Press scored the only goal in the 1–0 Royals victory over the Orlando Pride.