The Portland Thorns delighted football fans, and especially the half capacity that showed up to their regular NWSL season match up against Orlando Pride. The result reflects a very one-sided match where the home team registered a 6-0 shutout win that advanced the Thorns to second place in the table and as the top scoring team with 21 goals and a goal difference of +14.
Hina Sugita, opened the scoring with a flying volley from the 18 yard box, served beautifully by a cross from Janine Beckie at minute 21. Becky Sauerbrunn would double the lead after picking up a rebound from a Sam Coffey direct free kick in the 25th minute. The first half would end 2-0, but the Thorns dominance was total, with Orlando just registering three shots on goal.
The second half saw the Portland Thorns extending the lead and playing “au plaisir”. Sophia Smith would score the third in the 63rd minute served by Becky Sauerbrunn in the middle of the field. Smith’s superb shot to the left post proved too much for Orlando keeper Erin McLeod. In minute 79, it was Natalia Kuikka finishing a one touch pass by young Olivia Moultrie from cross by Sophia Smith. The Thorns forward would double her personal tally when she received a cross from Yazmeen Ryan on top of the box. Her dribble and superb finish on the top left corner extended Portland’s advantage to a resounding 5-0.
And just when everybody thought the game was over, Taylor Porter would control a pass from Yazmeen Ryan in the center of a crowded box and bring the bout to the final 6-0 scoreline.
After the goal fest on Sunday against Orlando, Portland will be traveling to LA to face Angel City on Friday, July 1st. Orlando Pride, will have to wait a few more days to host Racing Lousville on Sunday, July 3rd.
