Key Transactions
That Dash made quite a few moves during the 2018-19 offseason, looking to catapult the team into its first-ever playoff since joining the league in 2014.
Ahead of the 2019 season, the Dash brought two players back to the NWSL in Mexico international Arianna Romero and Canada international Sophie Schmidt. Romero played with the Dash during their inaugural season before being traded to the Washington Spirit then ultimately going overseas. Schmidt, a midfielder, previously played for Sky Blue FC, eventually departing for FFC Frankfurt.
Another key transaction for the Dash could be one which involved the Pride, acquiring Christine Nairn via trade in February. In exchange, Orlando received a 2019 international roster spot and two picks in the 2020 NWSL College Draft.
Recent Form
The Houston Dash most recently played the North Carolina Courage, ending with a 4-1 loss. The Courage picked up the pace in the second half, scoring all four of their goals before Rachel Daly ended the shutout bid in the 76th minute. Overall, however, the Dash have looked threatening under new Head Coach James Clarkson, earning a 1-1 draw against Reign FC in their opener before defeating Sky Blue FC 1-0 in Week 2.
Who’s Hot
England international Rachel Daly has been one of the Dash’s most consistent players over previous seasons and has started 2019 off strong on the attacking end. The forward currently leads the team with 12 shots, including eight on target and one goal the far. Paired with Canada international Nichelle Prince, the speed of the Dash’s attacking line is one thing the Pride will have to keep under control.
Head-to-Head
This will be the first time the Pride and Dash will meet this season. However, as referenced by the series’ history, Sunday could be anyone’s game. Orlando holds a 5-4-0 record against Houston all-time, but the Dash have won the two most recent meetings: 2-1 on June 27 in Orlando then 3-1 on July 11 in Houston. The two sides have each won two matches against each other at BBVA Compass Stadium.
Rasmussen College Fun Fact
This season marks the third straight season the Dash will have to adjust to a new head coach.
Midway through the 2017 season, founding Head Coach Randy Waldrum was relieved of his duties, tabbing Omar Morales as interim head coach for the Dash. Following that season, Houston named Vera Pauw the club’s newest manager. However, after just one season, Pauw declined to renew her contract citing a return to the Netherlands to be closer to her family. In December 2018, James Clarkson was appointed as the Dash’s new head coach. Clarkson previously served as Director for Youth Development at the Houston Dynamo Academy.
