The Orlando Pride's home opener against the Houston Dash Saturday was noteworthy for several reasons. First, it was the NWSL's newest team's first-ever home game. Second, it was the most-attended game in NWSL history with an estimated 23,403 fans in attendance. Third, team talisman Alex Morgan scored her first goal as a member of the Orlando Pride.
Alex Morgan scores for the Orlando Pride in front of an #NWSL record crowd (video via @quraishi) pic.twitter.com/gG8in60aC0
— Howler Magazine (@whatahowler) April 24, 2016
That goal was enough to earn Morgan the Player of the Match award, as voted by the fans. The Pride benefited from a Houston own goal and a wonderful free kick from Lianne Sanderson in the 3-1 victory.
You have voted @alexmorgan13 as your Player of the Match! #FilledWithPride pic.twitter.com/lzCdekY9lG
— Orlando Pride (@ORLPride) April 24, 2016
In sadder news, reigning FIFA World Player of the Year Carli Lloyd, who plays for Houston, managed only 12 minutes before limping off with a knee injury.
Full highlights from the match can be viewed here:
And the full match can be viewed here:
Contact The18 Staff Writer Sam Klomhaus at Klomhaus@The18.com or follow him on Twitter @SamKlomhaus
