Thank you very much. I am not particularly invested in any of the two teams or in NWSL actually (these days I am much more interested in UEFA Women's Champions' League match or in the upcoming WWC 2023 qualifying matches from next week), but, since I've actually nothing much to do in this European pre-dinner, I could very well follow the NWSL final at least for some time, if it looks entertaining. I agree with you that, lately, these boards have mostly been sound of crickets for what concerns NWSL, but I am fond of these boards for other reasons (European and Japanes women's soccer).
I'm just happy that there will be a new NWSL champion this year. I'm sick of all the usual winners. Also, I'm curious to hear what you think about the level of play versus the European league teams?
0-1 for Chicago at HT. The goal was scored at the 4' minute of stoppage time, that only existed because of a long break for an ankle injury to Pugh when the game was already into stoppage time (Pugh seemed to be able to resume the game but we're going to see in 2nd Half.). I'd say Spirit's DF who was marking the assist women (I guess it was O' Hara?) and GK Bledsoe who allowed the cross to fly high to the far post are mostly responsible for letting Rachel Hill free to head the ball in quite easily. I'll be so frank that I'll look brutal: I've recently watched some bright and intense UEFA Women's Champions' League games; if this is supposed the best show NWSL can offer, I have to say that I am quite unimpressed.
No problem. I think Europe has better midfielders and midfield play, which makes a more enjoyable viewing experience. IMO, North American players are more focused on scoring, and the glory that comes with that.
I'll now leave to dinner: not sure if I can come back before the end of the game (maybe, if Washington manage to drag it to extra-time, a although it does't seem like they can do it at the moment).
McKeown is taken down in the box by Davidson. PK called. Sullivan squeaks it in, but bad goalkeeping for Chicago.
Oh, I am back: looks like Spirit managed to make it a little more interesting and gave me the time to come back from dinner and still have something to see. Extra-time if nobody scores it these last minutes of stoppage time, it seems.
Washington was on the offensive mostly and Chicago was just intent on defending till the end of the match. The stats showed Washington with 15 shots to 1 for Chicago in the 2nd half. Yikes!!!
Washington just scored off a long cross into the box from Rodman and a headed goal from O'hara. That was sweet.
After what I read from you, I am surprised to know that the one that was (correctly) being given a few minutes ago was the first YC of the match: did I hear well?
Katie Johnson offering nothing in offense for Chicago. Doniak has also been quiet. It's too bad Pugh is out. EDIT: after I write that Doniak almost scored in the final 3 mins.