May 18, 2025

Photo courtesy of Houston Dash 

By Robert H Kelly 
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (May 16, 2025)  The Houston Dash dropped a 4-1 decision to Portland Thorns FC on Friday night at Shell Energy Stadium. This was the first game of a two-game homestand for the Dash.

Portland scored their first goal in the 26th minute and added another just four minutes later. They scored two more goals; one in the 54th minute and one from a penalty kick late in the game.

Houston’s only goal came in the 75th minute. Forward Michelle Alozie forced an own goal after a pass from Barbara Olivieri. Alozie dribbled into the box and her shot deflected off a Portland defender and into the net.

Goalkeeper Abby Smith had a busy night and finished with three saves. She stopped two strong shots early in the match and kept the Dash in the game during the first half.

The Dash had some chances to score. Messiah Bright and Maggie Graham nearly connected on a play in the 21st minute. Delanie Sheehan also had a close shot just before halftime. Newcomer Kiki Van Zanten made her regular season debut in the second half and almost scored in the 82nd minute.

The Dash will finish their homestand next Saturday, May 24, when they take on Bay FC for Kids Day at Shell Energy Stadium.

Leave a Reply