Portland Thorns x Houston Dash

The Portland Thorns FC put their early season struggles behind them with a resounding 4-1 victory over the visiting Houston Dash. The win marked their first at home this season and was fueled by a dominant performance from their attacking players.

Portland wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. In just the sixth minute, Christine Sinclair volleyed home a rebound off a Sophia Smith shot to take the lead. This goal held immense significance as it not only put the Thorns ahead but also cemented Sinclair's place in NWSL history. She became the only player to score in all eleven seasons of the league's existence, a testament to her longevity and goalscoring prowess.

Smith wasn't done there. Just over twenty minutes later, she added her own name to the scoresheet. Displaying her trademark pace, Smith outran the Dash's backline before slotting the ball past the diving goalkeeper. This goal marked another milestone for the young star, making her the youngest player in league history to reach 50 career goal contributions, combining goals and assists.

The Dash threatened a comeback early in the second half with a goal from Diana Ordóñez. However, the Thorns refused to relinquish control. They continued to press forward, with substitute Janine Beckie coming close with a headed attempt that narrowly missed the target. Their persistence eventually paid off in the 87th minute when Olivia Moultrie converted a pinpoint pass from Smith. The icing on the cake came in stoppage time when Beckie stole the ball near midfield and raced towards goal before firing a shot past the goalkeeper to secure the emphatic 4-1 victory.

[Photography by Jackie Shinstrom]