The Portland Thorns clinched a spot in next Saturday's NWSL Championship by eliminating the San Diego Wave 2-1 in today's semifinal at Providence Park with sensational goals from Rocky Rodríguez and Crystal Dunn overcoming Taylor Kornieck's opener.
The expansion Wave took the lead in the eighth-minute when Golden Boot winner Alex Morgan turned provider with Kornieck finishing from close range.
That @alexmorgan13 @taylorkornieck connection!
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) October 23, 2022
But the Thorns responded before halftime through Rodríguez, who smashed home a thunderous half-volley from the edge of the area in the 21st minute.
ROCKY RIGHT ON CUE @raque_rocky | @ThornsFC pic.twitter.com/FkWb1K1uXG
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) October 23, 2022
The 22,000+ inside the ground roared the Thorns to a winner in regular time, but it looked like we were destined for extra time with Kailen Sheridan and Naomi Girma leading the Wave's resolute defense.
However, in the third of four additional stoppage time minutes, Dunn — a 62nd-minute substitute while still recovering match fitness on her return from giving birth to her son, Marcel — fired an 18-yard rocket into the top corner after San Diego failed to clear a corner kick.
CRYSTAL DUNN AND THE CROWD GOES WILD!!@Cdunn19 | @ThornsFC pic.twitter.com/COECaQuags
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) October 23, 2022
Dunn only played four matches in the regular season, totalling just 47 minutes, but class is permanent.
