Game Notes: KC NWSL vs. North Carolina Courage

Kansas City NWSL returned to Legends Field to host the North Carolina Courage, the final meeting between the two teams of the season. KC looked to add their third straight win at home, but they would have to settle for a draw. Kansas City is now 2-0-1 at home in their last three matches. What did we learn?

KC outplays the Courage again

Kansas City again outplayed the Courage with 14 shots (six on goal) and owned 53% of the possession. Clinical finishing continues to haunt this KC team, despite the many chances. There were many moments in the box when the team just could not connect that final pass that could have made a difference, and the shots KC had were stopped. That is also credit to North Caroline goalkeeper Casey Murphy who recorded a total of six saves.

Better preparation

KC NWSL prepared better for North Carolina after their last meeting that had the Courage win 4-0 on August 21, even though KC led with 26 shots and 54 percent possession in that game. Head Coach Huw Williams said in the post-game press conference that the team had worked on eliminating crosses, especially the ones that the Courage could take to get into the box. The focus this past week as they prepped for North Carolina was on defending set pieces.

Desiree Scott is an important player for KC

In a game that marked Desiree Scott’s 100th appearance in the NWSL, it was evident how important she is to Kansas City. Scott started the match and became just the second Canadian to reach the milestone. Scott played the full 90 minutes for Kansas City and helped defend a clean sheet. She disrupted many Courage passes, while helping the KC attack.

Highlights

Kansas City enters a two-week break. Their next regular season game is scheduled for Sunday, September 26th on the road against the Washington Spirit at 4:00 PM CT.