On Saturday evening, during Pride Night at Lumen Field, the Reign captain, Lauren Barnes, had a significant night in addition to earning three crucial points. The visitors managed to score a consolation goal, courtesy of Isabel Rodriguez, while Sofia Huerta and Jordyn Huitema made valuable contributions by finding the back of the net for the Reign. Ultimately, OL Reign secured a 2-1 victory over the Kansas City Current.
LU BARNES 200!
Tonight marked the 200th regular-season NWSL match for Lu Barnes, making her the first player in NWSL history to reach this milestone.
WHAT WORKED: BIG GAY GOALS AND SAVES
Phallon Tullis-Joyce stepped up big with crucial saves in both halves to help her team secure all three points, marking a memorable night of celebration for Reign OL. The team did not disappoint in tonight’s annual Night Pride game.
Meanwhile, Sofia Huerta coolly opened the scoring with what could possibly be the lengthiest penalty kick of the season in the NWSL, as she slotted it into the bottom left corner.
In this season, Huitema remains the primary offensive danger for OL. Jordyn Huitema, with the assistance of Sofia Huerta’s precise cross, aggressively targeted the opposition’s air defense in the second half. Elyse Bennett, Tziarra King, Veronica Latsko, and Jordyn Huitema all contributed to the offensive efforts, delivering excellent runs and facilitating cohesive play, leading to numerous scoring opportunities for OL Reign.
WHAT DIDN’T WORK: Megan Rapinoe’s Injury
Megan Rapinoe, the forward, suffered a non-contact injury just ninety seconds into the game. In the 7th minute, she was substituted out for the in-form Veronica Latsko. Despite needing medical attention for several minutes, Rapinoe managed to walk off the field under her own strength, heading straight to the locker room.
QUOTES
After Megan Rapinoe, the regular penalty taker, was substituted due to injury, Sofia Huerta felt confident enough to step up and take the penalty for the team.
“We discussed it… [As a team]. Today was dedicated to Lu.” — Sofia Huerta on commemorating Lu Barnes’ 200th match.
“It’s an unreal achievement.”
Obviously, as a coach, one thing that is frightening is the amount of games that a player needs to play in order to be a star. However, Laura Harvey is willing to put her body on the line for the team and she consistently shows her talent at a high level. It is unreal the amount of games she has played and the achievement she has accomplished. It is phenomenal. I don’t think it will be matched. She doesn’t get the credit she deserves. She’s not a polarizing person, she’s humble and wants everyone else to get the limelight instead of it being on her. It’s a phenomenal achievement.