Houston Dash grabbed a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Seattle Reign on Sunday night in the National Women’s Soccer League. Rookie Maggie Graham netted her third goal of the season to seal the win and end Reign’s three-match unbeaten streak.
Right from the kickoff, both teams showed urgency. The Reign looked stronger in the early moments of the second half, but it was the Houston Dash who struck first. In the 57th minute, Ryan Gareis delivered a pinpoint cross that Maggie Graham finished clinically.
🧤 Abby Smith Shines for Houston Dash
A major highlight for Houston Dash was the debut of goalkeeper Abby Smith. Making her first regular-season start since a serious knee injury in 2023, Smith replaced Jane Campbell and impressed with a composed performance. After the match, Campbell warmly embraced her in support.
Despite Seattle’s push for an equalizer, including a half-volley by Emeri Adames that hit the crossbar in the 77th minute, the Houston Dash defense held firm to preserve the win. The team had only won once before in Seattle.
💪 Kansas City Current Dominate Bay FC at Home
In the day’s other game, Kansas City Current bounced back from two straight losses with a dominant 4-1 win over Bay FC at CPKC Stadium. Debinha starred with two goals, including a stunning free-kick in the 38th minute. Bia Zaneratto and Temwa Chawinga also added their names to the scoresheet.
With this result, Kansas City remained top of the NWSL table with a 6-2-0 record. Bay FC, meanwhile, slipped further after their second consecutive defeat. Penelope Hocking scored the lone goal for the visitors.
🎭 Celebrities and Comebacks Highlight NWSL Action
Before the Kansas City match, “Ted Lasso” stars Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt hyped up the crowd with a spirited “KC Baby! KC Baby!” chant. The matchday was a showcase of thrilling comebacks, star power, and significant moments across the league.
With rising stars like Maggie Graham and returning talents like Abby Smith, Houston Dash looks to build momentum and climb the standings under new coach Fabrice Gautrat.