Three Players to Watch: Utah Royals FC

(image via Utah Royals FC)

The Houston Dash continue a busy May with a midweek road trip tomorrow night. Here are three Utah Royals players to keep an eye on in the match.

Cloé Lacasse

The former Arsenal forward is finally finding the form the Royals were hoping for. The Canadian international has been outstanding in every outing, looking like a player reborn. With two goals and two assists in seven matches, Lacasse’s numbers may not immediately stand out, but her impact goes far beyond the stat sheet. Her progressive passing, dangerous crosses into the box, and ability to create chances have made the Royals an exciting team to watch.

Mina Tanaka

The veteran Japanese international is off to an excellent start this season and remains the focal point of the Royals’ attack. Known for her ability to create goals and chances, Tanaka has taken her game to another level this year, benefiting from a stronger supporting cast around her. While she has been less involved in buildup play at times, she has been far more clinical in front of goal and sharper with her final ball. She will be a difficult player for the Dash to contain.

Mandy McGlynn

McGlynn made her first start of the season in Utah’s last match, a 1-0 win on the road against Angel City this past weekend. The U.S. international made 4 saves, including a couple of spectacular stops to keep a clean sheet for the Royals. With the World Cup next year, and the USWNT goalkeeper pool still full of question marks, McGlynn will look to continue putting up impressive performances in goal for Utah.