After a hard-fought battle against the San Diego Wave, where victory slipped just out of reach, Bay FC is returning home with determination ablaze. Despite a valiant effort, San Diego managed to seize and maintain the lead in the closing moments of the match. Bay FC returned home to host the Portland Thorns in a matchup that had the team looking forward to playing on of the more impressive teams in good form in the NWSL.
The Bay FC lineup looked a little different than usual as we saw Asisat Oshoala coming off the bench for the first time all season, and Scarlett Cambreos not active in this match up. Bay FC is used to starting most of their games out of the game with early pressure, but this time they were on the opposite side of the situation as Portland Thorns came right out of the tunnel with early pressure. The Thorns were able to strike immediately after the starting whistle as they got on the board with a goal shortly after the first minute of the game with a shot that went left of Bay FC keeper Lysianne Proulx and into the top of the net. Shortly after the first goal Portland's Sophia Smith was able to draw a one-on-one against Bay FC Proulx, as the USWNT star drew Proulx just off her stance and was able to get the ball passed her for the second goal of the game. Portland struck very early, and had a 2-0 lead heading into the 7th minute of the game. Although one thing is for sure, and that is Bay FC would look to strike back.
Bay FC has been competitive in all the matches in their inaugural, and even when trailing they have had the determination to continue to battle hard until the last whistle of the game. After attempts on both sides of the field, Bay FC seemed to start ramping up right before the halftime whistle. Bay FC's attacking pressure was building, and it was Racheal Kundananji who was able to answer back for Bay FC. Racheal Kundananji was able to cut past a Portland defender as she was pinned in between two defensive players in order to have her shot go through into goal into the right top corner. Racheal Kundananji had an impressive shot right before the end of the first half, but was just off target as it lead to the halftime whistle.
Bay FC were determined to come out of the halftime, and it showed right out of the gate. They played hard creating chances, and for a while they had the Portland Thorns pinned on their side of the field creating almost a scene of an army attacking a guarded fort. A lot of chances were created, but it was finally a impressive solo run from Kundanaji cutting in and out drawing the Portland goalkeeper out of the box to set up Deyna Castellanos for a shot on a wide open goal to level the game at two.
Bay FC did not stop there. They continued to push their attack as the momentum had shifted to their side. The fans energy was giving the shot of energy the players were looking for, and it fueled their attacking pressure even more. While it looked for certain that Bay FC were going to score another goal, it was the USWNT star Sophia Smith who was able to stun the crowd with a goal late in the 78' minute for Portland. Although the Bay FC continued to push to the final whistle they were unable to level the game for a second time, and Smith's goal proved to be the difference maker.
Despite Bay FC's recent string of losses, there are numerous reasons for optimism. Their consistently high-level performance, competitiveness in closely contested matches, and ability to embrace learning opportunities highlight their resilience and determination. Moreover, the unwavering support from fans serves as a source of motivation for the team. Each defeat offers valuable lessons and opportunities for growth, building character and fortitude that will undoubtedly contribute to their future success. In the face of adversity, Bay FC remains steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, signaling a promising outlook for the team's future. The team came together very quickly, but they play like a team who has been playing together for a long time. The culture that Bay FC is building is impressive, and you can see it in the fans, and with the performances on the field. There is no doubt in my mind that this team can continue their form, and get the results they are looking for. Fans, and even newer individuals discovering the team, can know that this is a team worth paying attention to, and investing in because this is the start of something special in the Bay Area.
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More Images from Portland Thorns vs. Bay FC (May 1st, 2024):
