by Brian Turrel
Children’s Mercy Park turned a slightly different shade of blue on Monday night as thousands of teal-clad fans of the new Kansas City NWSL women’s soccer team turned out for the franchise’s first home game. The game was sold out, although COVID restrictions limited the attendance.
The Houston Dash played the spoiler at Kansas City’s debut, defeating the hosts 3-1. Kristie Mewis scored a brace for the Dash, and Rachel Daly added one by penalty kick. Michele Vasconcelos scored Kansas City’s lone goal in a second half comeback effort that ended short.
In the first half, Kansas City controlled most of the possession, but Houston was more dangerous with its chances. The Dash got on the board in the 25th minute when USWNT member Mewis unleashed a left-footed blast from about 15 yards out.
Houston went up 2-0 in first half stoppage time. Houston’s Rachel Daly tangled with defender Rachel Corsie just inside Kansas City’s 18-yard box. The collision earned Daly a penalty kick that she took herself and converted.
After the half, Houston continued to press its advantage, and Mewis scored again in the 71st minute. Nichelle Prince streaked up the field and connected with Mewis for the goal.
Kansas City head coach Huw Williams made some late substitutions to create some offense, including bringing on forward Michele Vasconcelos in the 69th minute. Lo’eau LaBonta found Vansconcelos as she slipped between the two Houston center backs and fed her the ball to earn the goal for Kansas City.
Williams made a couple more late substitutions, but Kansas City was unable to break through again.
The match was part of the NWSL Challenge Cup, a tournament that kicks off the NWSL season. Kansas City will play its last Challenge Cup game on Monday, May 3, at 8 p.m. against the OL Reign of Seattle. The game will take place at the Field of Legends, home ballpark of the Kansas City Monarchs.
The regular season schedule will be announced later.
