Orlando Pride vs. Kansas City Current: Photo Gallery

The Orlando Pride started Friday’s game against the first-place Kansas City Current on the front foot, and at first seemed like it would be an entertaining, open game between two high-quality opponents. Unfortunately, the game faded, and once Kansas City found a goal right after the intermission, the Current bunkered in and it felt like both teams were playing underwater for much of the second half. Given the temperature and lack of air movement at field level, it may have literally felt that way to the players as well.

Barbra Banda forced a good save in the first minute and had a second shot blocked, as Orlando created a few good chances over the first 15 minutes. As has become a trend of late, the Pride were unable to capitalize, however, and the Current became more organized as the half progressed. At the same time, the Pride got sloppy playing the ball out of their own end, turning the ball over repeatedly through the first half. However, Orlando was able to defend well in the opening 45 minutes, despite setting the visitors up repeatedly. The Pride made a late surge as the end of the half approached but again could not capitalize.

Shortly after the restart for the second half, the Current made the Pride pay for their inability to convert early, with Kylie Nadaner’s poor touch turning what should have been a comfortable recovery into a 1-v-1 for Temwa Chawinga, who finished past Anna Moorhouse for the game’s only goal. With the lead, Kansas City sat back and played for counter opportunities, knowing the Pride had to press forward for an equalizer. While Orlando held a lot of the ball and sent some dangerous balls into the area, the Pride were not able to find the right final pass or get shots on frame, ultimately suffering their third loss of the season.

We hope you enjoy this album of images from a hard-fought match between two of the top teams in the NWSL.