The Houston Dash fell 1-0 to the Chicago Red Stars this afternoon at Merlo Field in a tightly-contested match at the Thorns Spring Invitational. It was Houston's second match of the tournament, and the Dash saw their record drop to 1-1-0 in the event.
Forward Sofia Huerta gave Chicago the lead in the ninth minute after she evaded a defender with a run to the near post. Forward Sam Kerr's pass found Huerta near the penalty spot where she beat the Dash goalkeeper at the opposite post.
Houston's best opportunity of the first half came minutes after the opening goal as ThembiKgatlanadribbled to the touchline, but her shot bounced off the far post. The South African made her debut with the club after representing South Africa in the Cyprus Cup last week.
Rachel Daly forced a save in the 58th minute with a shot from the edge of the box that was handled by Chicago goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher at the near post.
The Dash wrap up their participation in the Thorns Spring Invitational at 9:30 p.m. CDT on Saturday against the reining NWSL Champion and tournament hosts, Portland Thorns FC. Houston will face Chicago in the opening game of the regular season at 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 25 at BBVA Compass Stadium. Tickets for the match start at $19 and are here.
