Match Recap: OL Reign Take Frustrating Loss Against Gotham FC

OL Reign came up short in 1-0 loss against NJ/NY Gotham FC at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey on a hot and humid evening. OL Reign had several opportunities to get on the board but were unable to find the back of the net for the second consecutive match. With tonight’s loss, the Reign remain in seventh place in the NWSL standings.

OL Reign started the match strong, with Rose Lavelle and Megan Rapinoe connecting early and often to create an offensive threat and challenge the NJ/NY defense. Gotham took control of game in the 13th minute against the run of play when former OL Reign player Ifeoma Onumonu scored on a header off a corner kick from Caprice Dydasco. The early goal was enough to send the teams to halftime with a 1-0 score line.

At the start of the second half, OL Reign midfielder Jess Fishlock picked up an injury and had to be taken off in the 47th minute. Though Gotham had 52.5% of possession in the second half, the chances were there for OL Reign to equalize. Angelina subbed on for OL Reign in the 59th minute and made an immediate impact, raising the tempo and intensity of the match. The Reign put in 11 shots and 8 crosses throughout the half, but no one was able to finish. The final whistle sounded and OL Reign picked up their second loss of the season.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Head Coach Farid Benstiti made two changes to the lineup this week, with Ella Dederick in goal and Leah Pruitt earning the start.

• This match was Ella Dederick’s first professional start.

• Kelcie Hedge appeared on the bench for the first time for OL Reign since her ACL injury in 2020.

• Next week OL Reign does not have a match, as there is a FIFA international window.

• This is the second straight loss for the Reign, ending their two-match win streak on the road.