Chicago Red Stars Vs Portland Thorns: 3 things we learned

Chicago Red Stars, Portland Thorns (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
Chicago Red Stars, Portland Thorns (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
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HERRIMAN, UT – JULY 01: Simone Charley #38 of Portland Thorns FC in action during a game against the Chicago Red Stars in the first round of the NWSL Challenge Cup at Zions Bank Stadium on July 1, 2020 in Herriman, Utah. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
HERRIMAN, UT – JULY 01: Simone Charley #38 of Portland Thorns FC in action during a game against the Chicago Red Stars in the first round of the NWSL Challenge Cup at Zions Bank Stadium on July 1, 2020 in Herriman, Utah. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)

2. Finishing a problem for both teams

After any scoreless draw, questions should be asked of the quality of both teams’ attacks. And those questions are warranted here.

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The Portland Thorns have scored a total of two goals over their last eight games played in all competitions. This performance only continues that trend. With an attack that includes one of the greatest goalscorers in the history of the game, this should be massively concerning for any Thorns fan. They created openings, but the lack of clinical play in the final third was troublesome and saw them stumble against Chicago’s B-Team.

Chicago, though, are not exempt from criticism either. It begs repeating only because it’s such a big deal, but they don’t have Sam Kerr anymore. She was one of the best goalscorers in the world. More than just the goals, though, her influence on opposing defenses provided space for others to score as well.

Morgan Gautrat was handed a lucky chance last game, but so far there haven’t really been any moments for the Red Stars to breakthrough. It leaves the attack looking lifeless, slow, lethargic. Kerr’s absence has been hugely detrimental and Chicago are yet to find a solution.