Dash Look to Rebound Against Rising Bay FC Before International Break
(image via Houston Dash)
The Houston Dash will host Bay FC tonight in their final match before the international break. The Dash dropped to 12th place following a 4–1 loss to the Portland Thorns in their last match. Bay FC climbed the standings with a stunning 2–0 victory over Angel City FC last weekend.
When: Saturday, May 24 | 7:00 PM CT
Where: Shell Energy Stadium; Houston, Texas
TV/Stream: NWSL+, Paramount+, Golazo Network
Radio: PTS Media (Spanish)
Get the Defense Back
Early in the season, the Houston Dash were known for their defensive compactness and ability to withstand pressure from opponents. No defense is perfect—mistakes happen, and even a brief lapse in concentration can lead to goals. However, the Dash’s most recent performance was far from their early-season form. The backline looked disorganized and struggled to contain the opposition. Head coach Fabrice Gautrat emphasized the need to return to the defensive structure that defined them earlier in the campaign. The key will be reestablishing cohesion in the backline during high-pressure moments. A lingering question remains: will veteran goalkeeper Jane Campbell return to the starting lineup to help stabilize the defense? Time will tell.
Eye on the Future
This matchup will offer a glimpse into what the Dash must address in the upcoming summer transfer window. Following a major roster overhaul in the offseason, it was always going to take time for the new pieces to gel. Players like Yazmeen Ryan, Delanie Sheehan, Danielle Colaprico, and Maggie Graham have made strong early contributions. Still, one key issue remains unresolved: the striker position. Diana Ordoñez was expected to return from injury and be given a fair shot at claiming the No. 9 role, but her future with the club is now uncertain. While Messiah Bright has added energy to the front line and contributed to the attack, it's unclear if she’s the long-term answer. Will someone step up, or will the Dash need to pursue a high-caliber striker in the transfer window?
Cagey Bay FC
Bay FC is experiencing a roller-coaster season. Results didn’t go their way early on, but their recent statement 2–0 win over Angel City FC may signal a turning point. Racheal Kundananji notched her first goal of the season and looks to be finding her rhythm just in time for this clash. While Bay FC's roster may not be packed with marquee names, they’ve proven capable of grinding out results and upsetting expectations.
Availability Report
Houston Dash – Out: Ramona Bachmann (parental leave), Allysha Chapman (D45-wrist), Diana Ordoñez (excused absence), Yazmeen Ryan (face)
Bay FC – Out: Melissa Lowder (lower back), Princess (excused absence); Questionable: Dorain Bailey (upper leg)
Predicted Lineup
