2019 NWSL Regular Season – Week 4

Chicago Red Stars vs Utah Royals

Rio Tinto Stadium, Sandy, Utah

May 3 – 8:30 PM CT

CHICAGO — The Chicago Red Stars are riding high following a wild weekend that saw a 3-0 win against Reign FC and flurries in April. The Red Stars are on the road again as they face the Utah Royals in a Week 4 matchup on Friday, May 3. Both teams are currently neck and neck in the NWSL standings, making for an exciting head-to-head matchup early on in the season.

Where to Watch

TV: NBC Sports Chicago +

Stream: NBC Sports App, Yahoo Sports

Additionally, authenticated regional subscribers of NBC Sports Chicago can view the live stream of the game at NBCSportsChicago.com/WatchLive.

Opponent Form

The Royals have won both games they’ve played this season by a scoreline of 1-0. They opened their campaign at home against Washington. Lo’eau LaBonta’s early strike was enough for the win in Week 1. Veteran goalkeeper Nicole Barnhart boasts two clean sheets and five saves that notched Utah its two consecutive wins.

What to Watch For

New Faces

With the World Cup roster announcement from U.S. Soccer this afternoon, Red Stars players will have their chance to take on more impactful roles for the squad in replace of Morgan Brian, Tierna Davidson, Julie Ertz and Alyssa Naeher. Head Coach Rory Dames will look to his deep bench, which includes a strong mix of veterans and rookies, to compete in Utah.

Tight Margin

Both meetings between the Red Stars and Royals at Utah last year were decided by a one-goal margin. Danielle Colaprico’s insane volley was the lone goal in Chicago’s win over the Royals in both teams’ first-ever matchup. It would take until the 2018 regular season finale for both teams to return to the Rio Tinto Stadium, where the Royals came from behind to win 2-1. Chicago still holds the upper hand with an overall record versus the newest NWSL club, 2-0-1.

Quick Strike

Utah’ s two wins this season were thanks to early goals and stellar defense. Utah has scored both goals this season before the 20th minute of play. LaBonta’s strike against Washington was in the 10th minute. A week later in Orlando, Christen Press’ 19th-minute opener gave Utah their second win of the year. The team started off with a first-week bye, but with two wins and six points, the Royals are in second place in the NWSL.