SANDY, Utah – (April 27, 2024) – The Houston Dash earned their second clean sheet of the season following a scoreless draw against Utah Royals FC earlier today at America First Field.
Dash forward Ramona Bachmann made her NWSL debut this evening and tallied three crosses in the opening 15 minutes of the match. Bachmann joined the Dash earlier this month following a transfer from Paris Saint-Germain.
Defender Paige Nielsen also made her Dash debut after joining Houston via a trade with Angel City FC last week. Nielsen helped the Dash earn their second clean sheet of the season and made four interceptions in her 90-minute shift.
Defender Natalie Jacobs returned to the starting lineup tonight after missing the last match due to injury. The centerback made a key block at the edge of the box in the 23rd minute when she got a touch on Paige Monaghan’s shot. Jacobs finished with two clearances and two successful tackles in her second start of the season.
Goalkeeper Jane Campbell made her first save of the game in the 24th minute when she handled Mikayla Cluff’s effort at the near post. The Dash goalkeeper finished with four saves against Utah tonight.
Houston nearly broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute after midfielder Sophie Schmidt won the ball in Utah’s half. Schmidt played the ball to forward Diana Ordóñez, who tallied a shot on target that was cleared at the goal line by the Royals backline.
Campbell was called into action again in the final moments of the first half when she tipped a shot from Zoe Burns over the crossbar.
Bachmann nearly opened the scoring in the 60th minute after rookie forward Amanda West found the veteran striker open near the top of the box. The Swiss international’s strike was blocked for a corner kick.
Swedish international Elin Rubensson delivered a corner kick in the 82nd minute which found defender Sarah Puntigam, but her header was saved by Utah goalkeeper Mady Haught.
The Houston Dash return to Shell Energy Stadium on Sunday, May 5 to host the Kansas City Current at 12:00 p.m. CT. Fans can purchase tickets for the match HERE. Fans above the age of 21 can also purchase a special Cinco De Mayo promotion, which includes a ticket to the game and a margarita by clicking HERE.
