GAME NOTES

CHICAGO – The Red Stars will travel to Boston to face the Breakers in their third of four continuous matches on the road.

During Week 11 action, both teams took place in two matches in three days. The Red Stars faced Seattle in a 2-1 loss on Wednesday, but bounced back to defeat Orlando Pride 1-0 on Saturday.

Despite Orlando having majority of possession during the game (62%), the Pride couldn’t put any of their 20 shots past Red Stars goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, who saved four shots on goal. Entering the match in the 64th minute, Casey Short took her first touch inside the box just thirty seconds later and immediately drew a foul inside the box and was award a penalty kick. Christen Press stepped up to the spot and nabbed her fifth goal of the season, her third from the penalty spot.

The Red Stars captain has held the lead for shots (55) and shots on goal (25) for several weeks, looking to continue that lead and add more goals to her five. A consistent playoff contender, Chicago has continued their second-place run, and will look to jump into the first place position for the first time this season, while only one point separates the Red Stars from league leaders North Carolina.

Last week, Boston earned a 0-0 draw after a tough mid-week battle in Houston. The Dash managed six more shots than the Breakers, but Boston’s defense held strong and backup goalkeeper Sammy Jo Prudhomme was able to save four of Houston’s shots on frame to end in a scoreless stalemate.

But it was the Breakers 1-0 victory against Washington on Saturday that saw Boston earn their first win in eight matches. Substitute Margaret Purce recorded her first goal of the season to get Boston out of last place and end their winless drought, dating back to April.

With a 3-6-3 record, the Breakers have only seen nine goals for their side, while conceding 14. Boston will look to continue their streak, but without the help of star midfielder Rose Lavelle due to injury, it will be hard for the Breakers to get past the veteran backline of Chicago.

Catch Chicago’s fight for first place while they take on Boston on Friday, July 7, at Jordan Field. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. CT, and fans can watch the match on the go90 app or NWSLsoccer.com.