Throughout the 2017 Orlando Pride season, the offense has been the driving factor for most of the team’s wins. On the other end of the pitch, the defense has stepped up in a big way, helping maintain close games. One of the biggest factors in that back line has been Ali Krieger, who has not only been a fill-in captain with Ashlyn Harris missing time due to injury, but the most consistent player for the Pride this season.
After joining the Pride this offseason from Washington, Krieger has played every single minute in every single game this season, one of only eight players in all of NWSL to do so. She has played both as a fullback and as a centerback throughout this season, excelling in both roles. As a fullback, her technical ability on the ball added a dangerous weapon coming from the back line, getting into the attack and crossing balls into threatening areas.
As a centerback, Krieger’s mobility has been key in shutting down dangerous attacks through the middle. Being in that middle of the defense also helped her lead the defensive line and communicate with the back four more effectively. When Ashlyn Harris was out, Krieger stepped in as the vocal leader for the team and kept the defense focused, alert and composed through the games she was wearing the armband.
With only four games remaining in the season, the Pride defense will be tested by some of the best teams in the league, which means Krieger and the back line will need to continue to hold strong and keep opponents off the scoreboard, if they are to keep their spot in the playoffs.
