It took two-thirds of the season, but Bay FC finally played to a draw, earning a point on the road against the North Carolina Courage. It was the first tie for the Bay in team history.
“Another great performance for our team,” said Bay FC head coach Albertin Montoya after the game. “I was incredibly proud of the team. We came and executed our plan.”
Bay attacked for the start and was rewarded in the 9th minute. Tess Boade sprung a counterattack out wide and found teammate Asisat Oshoala, who made the outlet run. She converted on Boade’s pass to score one-on-one with Courage keeper Casey Murphy.
An uncharacteristic mistake from centerback Emily Menges in the 28th minute allowed North Carolina to tie the game.
After controlling the ball in the box, Menges clearance was right to the feet of North Carolina’s Denise O’Sullivan. She one-timed the ball to teammate Ashley Sanchez, who put the equalizer into the net.
In the second half, Bay FC continued to exert pressure and had numerous chances to take the lead. However, the team could not convert and had to settle for the first tie in team history.
It was an important point that ensured Bay remained in a playoff position going into next week’s home game against the undefeated Orlando Pride on Friday night at PayPal Park.
“We’ve got to go play the undefeated team… we hope to be the first team that gives them a loss,” said Montoya.
