Enemy Scouting Report - Utah Royals FC
(image via Utah Royals FC)
The Houston Dash are eager to bounce back and put an end to their losing streak, which continued over the weekend with a 2-0 defeat to the league-leading Kansas City Current. Kansas City’s dominance this season highlights just how tough the competition is, but Friday night presents a new opportunity. The Dash return to Shell Energy Stadium in search of their first home win of the season under head coach Fabrice Gautrat.
Their opponent, the Utah Royals, find themselves in a strikingly similar position. Like Houston, Utah has struggled to gain momentum in 2025 — both teams currently share identical records and goal differentials. This matchup could prove pivotal for two clubs desperate to turn their seasons around.
Utah head coach Jimmy Coenraets, now in his second year, is leading the franchise through a rebuilding phase. The team has shown glimpses of promise, especially under Coenraets’ tactical approach that emphasizes discipline and quick transitions. However, consistent results have been hard to come by.
Individually, the Royals feature key contributors who could pose a challenge for the Dash. Goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn has been a steady presence between the posts, while attackers Mina Tanaka and Bianca St. Georges bring attacking flair and experience to the front line to complement young superstar Ally Sentnor. If Utah finds rhythm early, Houston’s defense will need to be sharp.
Utah Royals Current Record: 1W-1D-3L
Results in the last 30 days:
March 22 - San Diego Wave FC 3-2 Utah Royals
March 29 - Kansas City Current 3-0 Utah Royals
April 11 - Utah Royals 0-1 Portland Thorns
April 18 - Utah Royals 1-0 Chicago Stars
Last Match Staring XI (from fotmob.com)
2025 Roster
Goalkeepers: Mandy McGlynn, Mia Justus, Cristina Roque
Defenders: Tatumn Milazzo, Olivia Griffitts, Lauren Flynn, Kate Del Fava, Nuria Rábano, Ana María Guzmán, Madison Pogarch, Ana Tejada, Kaleigh Riehl, Imani Dorsey
Midfielders: Macey Fraser, Janni Thomsen, Claudia Zornoza, Alex Loera, Mikayla Cluff, Dana Foeder, Aria Nagai
Forwards: Paige Monaghan, Ally Sentnor, Mina Tanaka, Brecken Mozingo, KK Ream, Cloe Lacasse, Aisha Solórzano, Sydney Jones, Kayla Colbert, Bianca St-Georges
Will the Dash finally break through at home, or will the Royals add to Houston’s frustrations?
