Houston Dash vs Portland Thorns FC player ratings

(image via Houston Dash)

The Houston Dash were beaten 4-1 by the Portland Thorns Friday night. Here’s a closer look at individual performances from the match.

Starters

Abby Smith – 5

Smith faced a challenging outing, conceding four goals. While she managed three saves, the defense’s lapses left her vulnerable throughout the match.

Avery Patterson – 5.5

Patterson contributed defensively and attempted to support forward plays. Her efforts were notable, but the team’s overall defensive struggles overshadowed individual performances.

Katie Lind – 5.5

Lind worked to organize the backline and made several clearances. Despite her efforts, the defense was breached multiple times by Portland’s attack.

Natalie Jacobs – 5.5

Jacobs showed determination in defense, engaging in duels and attempting to disrupt Portland’s rhythm. However, the collective defensive unit was outmatched.

Christen Westphal – 5

Westphal faced difficulties containing Portland’s wingers, with several attacks originating from her flank. Her positioning was tested throughout the game.

Maggie Graham – 6

Graham tried to anchor the midfield and distribute the ball effectively. While she had moments of control, Portland’s midfield often dictated the pace.

Danielle Colaprico – 5.5

Colaprico displayed composure under pressure and attempted to link defense with attack. Her experience was evident, though it wasn’t enough to turn the tide.

Delanie Sheehan – 6

Sheehan provided energy in the midfield, pressing opponents and seeking to regain possession. Her efforts were commendable in a challenging match.

Ryan Gareis – 5.5

Gareis showed intent on the wings, making runs and trying to stretch Portland’s defense. Her contributions added some dynamism to the Dash’s play.

Barbara Olivieri – 5.5

Olivieri was active in the attacking third, attempting to create opportunities and pressing the opposition. Her work rate was a positive aspect in the loss.

Messiah Bright – 5.5

Bright worked tirelessly up front, seeking to hold up play and bring teammates into the attack. Despite limited service, she remained a focal point in offense.

Substitutes

Kiki Van Zanten – 6

Van Zanten brought fresh legs to the midfield, striving to make an impact in her first minutes after her long term absence. Her involvement was steady, though without significant influence on the game’s outcome.

Paige Nielsen – 5.5

Nielsen added experience to the backline upon her introduction, helping to stabilize the defense during her time on the pitch.

Michelle Alozie – 6

Alozie injected pace and attempted to challenge Portland’s defense. While her efforts were evident, clear-cut chances remained elusive. Her shot forced an own goal, Houston’s only goal of the match.

Sarah Puntigam – 5.5

Puntigam contributed to midfield battles, aiming to regain control and distribute effectively. Her presence added some resilience in the center.

Evelina Duljan – 6

Duljan’s late entry provided additional support, but with limited time, her impact on the match was minimal.

Head Coach

Fabrice Gautrat – 6

Gautrat faced selection challenges, notably the absence of Yazmeen Ryan due to injury and choosing to bench Jane Campbell for a second consecutive game. The team’s defensive vulnerabilities were exposed by Portland’s potent attack, and while there were moments of promise, adjustments were insufficient to counter the Thorns’ dominance.