USWNT 5-0 New Zealand
This game against a higher ranked opponent than the last had a better score with a lot of help. A pure hat trick scored by Moore for the US set the table for the victors. One off the head and one from each foot, within half an hour, the final result was in little doubt.
This unfortunate turn of events for the player, did alter the game all but to the point of making it difficult to get a real read on either team. Tactics were changed on both ends as I am sure this was not a consideration by either side.
The US unlike the previous game was not on goal all game, thwarted by an outstanding performance by a netminder, but did again have the better of the game. That even with a 3 goal lead for 2/3 of the game and unable to put away more than a pair of goals on their own is telling of the anemic offense they have at this point.
Yes, again the missing pieces with a few 100 caps did hurt them, it has not quite be a baptisim by fire for any given the opposition they will face over this tourney. The US still lacked cohesion, the linking between mid and forward lines was not going well by any means.
These games to me came as a test to the coaching staff, I feel they have not lived up to their billing in the slightest. The inability in the opening game of having much success yet, trying different things, not enough as in most times when you try enough things, one clicks, try more.
Hatch the leading goal getter in the NWSL had 3 points with a goal and assist 40’ apart as she assisted Pugh on her score.
This game is for the title, challenged by the # 24 team then facing the 20th having not a great showing facing the lower does not bode well for the title game here a win is a must to take the title. It will be interesting to see how this young roster answers the bell in a game for a trophy.