The Kansas City Current earned a clean sheet for the second match in a row, this time playing the Orlando Pride to a 0-0 draw on March 2.
Midfielder Sam Mewis made her debut for the team coming on to the pitch in the 70th minute.
Continuing to show confidence in his young players, head coach Matt Potter once again started a defensive backfield featuring three rookies; Jenna Winebrenner, Alex Loera and Izzy Rodriguez. Along with Maddie Nolf, the Current back line stood tall early in the game as Orlando’s Sydney Leroux and Marta tried to crack through the defense.
“I love playing center back and I’m always up for the challenge,” Loera said. “Going up against players like Sydney Leroux and Marta and playing against Lynn Williams in practice. I’m just excited for where these vets are going to take me in my journey and I’m really looking forward to continuing to be challenged.”
Early in the match, Orlando’s Marta intercepted a pass and drove toward goal. Goalkeeper A.D. Franch rushed toward the attacker, forcing an early shot that just arced over Franch’s hands. Rookie Winebrenner rushed toward the line and was able to get there in time to clear the ball and keep the Pride off the score sheet.
“I like the contribution all-around,” Potter said. “We have a good balance in the team of experience and youth and throughout the game both contributed. For me, I thought one picked up the other when needed. That’s our identity… Whether they’re rookies or returners, it doesn’t matter. They brought value to the team tonight and that’s a positive step for where we are.”
The Current have one more preseason match scheduled against the University of Nebraska at 4 p.m. March 11 at Hibner Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska.
The 2022 NWSL Challenge Cup opens with the Current on the road to face Racing Louisville at 6:30 p.m. March 18. The team will open its home portion of the Challenge Cup Schedule, also against Louisville, at 2 p.m. April 2.
Season tickets and flex plans are available for all home matches at Children’s Mercy Park. For pricing and information visit KansasCityCurrent.com.
- Information from KC Current