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NWSL: North Carolina Courage – 2017 Season Preview

By Nathan Reynolds

Dec 6, 2015; Cary, NC, USA; Penn State forward Raquel Rodriguez (11) scores a goal as Duke goalkeeper EJ Proctor (30) looks on in the second half. Penn State defeated Duke 1-0 at WakeMed Soccer Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 6, 2015; Cary, NC, USA; Penn State forward Raquel Rodriguez (11) scores a goal as Duke goalkeeper EJ Proctor (30) looks on in the second half. Penn State defeated Duke 1-0 at WakeMed Soccer Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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The newly relocated and rebranded club may be about to have their first match at the North Carolina Courage, but they still have a target on their back.

When Steve Malik purchased the NASL’s Carolina Railhawks he quickly stated his intentions on turning the organization towards top flight soccer. That meant bidding for a spot in the MLS, which they since have, and pursuing a NWSL franchise. It turned out his pathway to the NWSL and the return of the North Carolina Courage brand would be quicker than many expected.

The 2016 champions may have a new name, home stadium and colors, but the majority of the title winning squad returns. Lynn Williams will again be the focal point of the attack that scored a league leading 40 in 2016. With plans to expand to a 24,000 seat stadium and a rich network of youth development in the area, the Courage may be title contenders for years to come.

2016 Recap

Record: 9-5-6 (32 points)

Finishing Position: 4th

Postseason: Champions

After failing to qualify for two straight years, the Western New York Flash finally found consistent play in 2016. They opened the year with a statement win on the road at then champions, FC Kansas City. Staying in contention for the playoffs all season, a final day decisive 4-0 win over the Boston Breakers secured the fourth and final spot.

Their postseason run was the definition of drama. On the road at the top seed Portland Thorns, the Flash took an early 2-0 lead. Portland responded to tie the match 2-2, which would hold until the end of regular time. The both sides would score, but two quick strikes by Williams would ultimately settle the match.

In the final, both the Spirit and Flash would score early, but it was a 124th minute strike by Williams again which tied the game 2-2 and sent it to penalties. After twice saving her team deep into stoppage time in the playoffs, Lynn Williams slotted home the title winning penalty kick for the WNY Flash.

A dramatic cap to a historic season, and surprisingly their last match ever under that branding.

Players Out

  • Michaela Hahn
  • Alanna Kennedy
  • Adriana Leon
  • Laura Liedle
  • Britt Eckerstrom

Players In

  • Rosana
  • Debinha
  • Ashley Hatch
  • Darian Jenkins
  • Sam Witteman
  • Yuri Kawamura

The spine of the team is set, with the title-winning side returning most of the star core. How the new international players such as Rosana, Debinha and Kawamura fit into the side and adjust the formation, remains to be seen. Either way the Courage are deep and talented.

2017 Predictions

Their postseason run will have instilled tons of confidence heading into 2017. The squad has gotten even stronger, and thus seem a lock for a playoff spot. While the relocation may take some time to adjust to, the Courage should end us seeing strong fan support and the development of a rich youth academy. Expect lots of goals and excitement at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, NC this season.

Prediction:  2nd Place

NWSL 2017 Team Previews

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