Three Players to Watch: North Carolina Courage

(image via North Carolina Courage)

The Houston Dash are back home after the international break to take on the North Carolina Courage. The Courage combine a mix of veterans and young talent that can cause problems for any team. Here are three North Carolina players to keep an eye on in Saturday’s match.

Kailen Sheridan

The veteran Canadian goalkeeper has provided much-needed stability between the posts for North Carolina. With her experience Sheridan brings a calming presence that can help organize and strengthen the defensive unit. While her start to the season hasn’t been easy, she has the talent and pedigree to turn things around and deliver clean sheets.

Manaka Matsukubo

The 21-year-old was named NWSL Midfielder of the Year last season after scoring eleven goals and adding five assists. Matsukubo has played in two matches this season and scored in both of them. The young Japanese international can be dangerous anywhere in the attacking third.

Ashley Sanchez

The USWNT attacker has missed a few recent national team call-ups but remains pivotal to this Courage side. She has scored three goals in four matches and continues to serve as the focal point of the attack. With support from Matsukubo, her role becomes even more crucial in finishing off chances.