San Diego's two goals in the first half were enough to defeat the Portland Thorns.

In the 17th minute, McNabb scored the game's first goal on an assist from Alex Morgan to give San Diego a 1-0 lead. Sophia Smith had the chance to score the game's equalizer after 10 minutes had passed when she used her speed and agility to slip past two defenders for a wonderful shot from just behind the box. Unfortunately, that attempt missed the crossbar. Taylor Kornieck successfully headed the ball after Kailen Sheridan’s stunning goal kick in the 42nd minute cleared players in the middle. Alex Morgan, who was running toward the goal, outran the line of defense after Kornieck's header of the ball to score.

Portland attempted to create opportunities to get back into the game early in the second half. Those opportunities were never converted into goals. Portland even attempted to increase their offensive output at one point by replacing two players at once. San Diego maintained effective coverage throughout the second half because everyone knew their responsibilities and fit in.

[Photography by ICONIC photographer Jackie Shinstrom]

Written by Wes Shepherd