Seattle, Washington — A shorthanded Kansas City Current squad battled valiantly against OL Reign in the third and final match of a three-game road trip Wednesday but fell 1-0 as Reign forward Bethany Balcer’s headed goal in the 80th minute proved decisive.
Kansas City, missing head coach Matt Potter and four players due to COVID protocol for the second consecutive match, proved difficult to break down for a majority of the contest before an inch-perfect cross and finish gave the hosts the victory.
“That’s the game, we’ve got to learn from it, we’ve got to grow from it. We’re not going to make excuses down to our circumstances,“ acting head coach Lloyd Yaxley said. “We’re not going to make excuses; we’re going to fight and as a staff we’re going to knock our heads against the wall and come up with some solutions.”
OL Reign put pressure on Kansas City early with a flurry of chances. The most dangerous was in the 22nd minute, when forward Tziarra King had a one-on-one opportunity against Current goalkeeper A.D. Franch. Franch made a huge stop to keep the game level, then defender Jenna Winebrenner provided a crucial clearance.
Franch, who made her 100th NWSL appearance in Wednesday night’s match, made six saves through the opening 45 minutes and eight overall to help keep the match level at halftime. Midfielder Victoria Pickett and forward Elyse Bennett proved difficult for OL Reign to slow down in the opening half, each winning fouls well within opposing territory, but the Current was unable to find a goal.
Kansas City flipped the script and dictated proceedings for much of the second half, generating multiple scoring opportunities. In the 64th minute, a set piece led to a one-on-one opportunity for midfielder Kate Del Fava, but her shot sailed just over the crossbar. Minutes later, a Current corner found the head of defender Elizabeth Ball, but the Reign headed her shot away.
After Balcer’s goal, Franch made two more quality saves to keep the Current in the match and prevent a second OL Reign goal, but Kansas City was unable to generate an equalizer.
Kansas City is back at home for four matches over the next three weeks, starting with a clash against Racing Louisville FC at 2 p.m. Monday, May 30. Season tickets and flex plans are available for all home matches at Children’s Mercy Park. For pricing and information visit KansasCityCurrent.com.
- Story from KC Current