The Reign FC face FC Kansas City. Yes, that’s the team that just beat them 0-2, but it wasn’t without a mighty battle. FCKC’s Lauren Cheney proved to be the difference in that match with two assists. The Reign will have to find an answer for her ability to break players free, and to stop the set piece success.
It’s a tall order for the Reign, who still have no forwards for finishing. The allocation was not kind, and injuries, other commitments, and pregnancy have wiped out several of the marque players, which has been gone over enough. We have a team. We have a fantastic midfield, and Michelle Betos has been amazing between the sticks. The defense has been good, but not great. Kate Deines has had an outstanding season on the back line, but there have been breakdowns and a rotation of players in the back which make it very difficult for them to stand strong against the onslaught of other teams. That will get better with training and time.
The Reign keep themselves in the games. They just haven’t found the answer up top. Coach Laura Harvey has tried various midfielders in the role to no avail. It’s an issue that is not going to solve itself. They need to get a true forward in the position to receive and finish the beauty balls that Fishlock and company are serving up. Liz Bogus is the closest player to that role yet this season, but she hasn’t really been utilized there enough, and could really use Tiffany Cameron’s help. Coach Harvey was even quoted in a recent chat stating that she feels Megan Rapinoe can fill that role upon her arrival. There are a lot of questions for the Reign up top.
I’m not giving up on this team. I think they can turn it around. They are that last of the eight teams to have a home match. Perhaps tonight they will find their mojo. FCKC will be a tough test. They like possession ball, with excellent passing and very little long ball. Their back line is run by Becky Sauerbrunn and Lauren Sesselmann. Nicole Barnhart is a wall. But it isn’t impossible. The win against the Reign last week was their first win of the young season. Let’s see what Coach Harvey has in store for the team tonight.