It was a night of goals for the Orlando Pride, who left Orlando City Stadium on Saturday night with a 4-1 win over FC Kansas City. Goals came from Alanna Kennedy, Alex Morgan, and Kristen Edmonds, but arguably the best goal of the night came from defender Toni Pressley.
Well outside of the box, Camila set up the ball for Pressley and she launched a rocket of a goal into the back of the net. It was completely unexpected, and Kansas City Goalkeeper Nicole Barnhart could only reach out desperate for the block, but she stood no chance. After the ball hit the back of the net, Pressley turned to the crowd, her arms in the air.
“I just got the ball from Camila, it was a good ball, and I just looked to beat the defender,” Pressley said. “I knew I was pretty close to the goal and decided to go for it. Why not? And it worked out.”
The goal put her team up 3-1, reassuming their two goal lead after the defense gave up a goal for Kansas City in the 65th minute. It was the first goal for Pressley for the Orlando Pride and her first in the NWSL. It’s just another milestone in the journey that she has been on this season. Working her way up from an inconsistent substitute to a regular starter, Pressley has made a name for herself on the Pride this season. With her attitude and work ethic, she could help her team go all the way.
But even in her moment of glory, Pressley gave the praise back to the team effort.
“I think it was a good team fight tonight,” Pressley said at the top of the conference. “I think this is what we’ve been working towards. We’re finally putting everything together and we’re looking to play really good soccer tonight. I think it showed tonight. Just happy with everyone’s performance and so happy with everyone to get a win at home in front of our fans.”
The Pride will hit the road next week to take on the Chicago Red Stars at Toyota Stadium. They will return home to host Chicago the two weeks later, on August 5th. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.
