Kansas City NWSL returned to preseason friendly action with a 2-0 victory over the University of Kansas at Rock Chalk Park in Lawrence, Kansas.
Amy Rodriguez and Brittany Ratcliffe tallied scores and Abby Smith recorded the clean sheet in her first game action for KC.
Kansas City was on the attack from the very beginning of the game, getting its first shot on goal in the opening minute. Lo’eau LaBonta carried the ball down the middle of the field and dished off to a streaking Katie Bowen on the right side. Bowen then ripped off a shot on frame that the Jayhawks goalkeeper was just able to knock away.
LaBonta controlled the midfield for much of the day and created several chances for Kansas City, including a shot she took herself from 25 yards out that just barely cleared over the crossbar.
As the clock turned 14 minutes, forward Mariana Larroquette broke out from a cluster of Kansas defenders and found Rodriguez wide open at the top of the penalty box. KC’s team captain hit a perfect chip on her first touch that arced over the goalkeeper and into the back of the net.
Brittany Ratcliffe scored the second and final goal of the game in the 63rd minute of action. She broke away from the Kansas defense along the right side and streaked towards goal. Facing the goalkeeper one on one she was able to slide the ball underneath her and find the far post for the score.
The 2021 NWSL Challenge Cup opens April 9 with Kansas City NWSL traveling to face the Portland Thorns FC in the opening match.
The team opens its home schedule on Monday, April 26, against the Houston Dash.
Kansas City NWSL is now accepting season ticket deposits ahead of the team’s inaugural season. The team plans to play its inaugural season at Legends Field, formerly T-Bones Stadium, in Kansas City, Kansas.
For more information, visit KCWoso.com.