Graham goal gives Dash rare win in Seattle
(image via Houston Dash)
The Houston Dash secured a big 1-0 victory on the road over the Seattle Reign on Sunday night. Maggie Graham got the goal for Houston and goalkeeper Abby Smith, making her debut for the Dash, made some key saves to keep a clen sheet.
Heading into the match, head coach Fabrice Gautrat made a bold decision, opting to start veteran goalkeeper Abby Smith over captain Jane Campbell. Smith’s experience and distribution ability brought a fresh dynamic to the backline. Another key change saw Natalie Jacobs return to the defense after an injury spell, replacing Paige Nielsen.
Rainy weather set the tone for a cagey, defensive battle in the first half. Both teams sat back patiently, reluctant to press forward or break through defensive lines. It was clear that defense was the strong suit for both sides.
The first half produced just one shot from each team, neither hitting the target. Sensing the need for more attacking presence, Gautrat made an offensive adjustment for the second half, bringing on Barbara Olivieri for Messiah Bright.
Initially, the change seemed to disrupt the Dash's balance, as the Reign found confidence in possession. But as the Dash settled back into their rhythm, they began to open up and attack more aggressively, catching the Reign off guard.
The breakthrough came in the 57th minute. Yazmeen Ryan pressed high and forced a turnover in the Reign’s defensive third. She swiftly threaded a through ball to Ryan Gareis, who raced into open space before delivering a pinpoint cross into the 18-yard box. Maggie Graham was there to meet it, redirecting the ball into the net for her third goal of the season, giving the Dash the 1-0 lead.
The Dash nearly doubled their advantage late in the match. Delanie Sheehan sent a long through ball to Yazmeen Ryan, setting her up one-on-one with Seattle goalkeeper Claudia Dickey, but Ryan couldn’t capitalize as Dickey came off her line well to deny the chance.
Despite a defensive-minded first half, the Dash grew into the game and found a way to break through for the decisive goal, claiming all three points on the night with the 1-0 victory. Maggie Graham once again proved to be the difference-maker, extending her tally as the team’s leading scorer. While the win was important, the Dash will need to be sharper in attack and create more clear-cut chances in upcoming matches.
Next up, the Dash return home to face the Portland Thorns on Friday, May 16th, at 7:00 PM, with the match streaming live on NWSL+.
