Washington Spirit Vs Portland Thorns: 3 things we learned

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HERRIMAN, UT – JULY 05: Ashley Sanchez #2 of Washington Spirit fights for the ball with Katherine Reynolds #2 of Portland Thorns FC during a game on day 5 of the NWSL Challenge Cup at Zions Bank Stadium on July 5, 2020 in Herriman, Utah. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /

2. Star rookies meet expectations

This match featured two of the top four draft picks from the 2020 Draft. Morgan Weaver was taken by the Portland Thorns with the second-overall pick, while Ashley Sanchez was drafted fourth overall by the Washington Spirit. First-overall pick Sophia Smith has yet to appear for the Thorns due to injury.

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Both Weaver and Sanchez’s performances reminded us why there are high expectations for both. Sanchez will steal the headlines because of her backheel assist, but she played well outside of that moment. The UCLA graduate slipped a perfect ball forward to Ashley Hatch who looked to have a goal if Bixby didn’t make the tremendous save.

Weaver, meanwhile, didn’t get on the scoresheet or go viral for an incredible assist, but she had a good night passing the ball that only lacked accurate finishes from her teammates. The Washington State graduate set up goalscoring legend Christine Sinclair twice, but the Canadian legend couldn’t hit the target. Regardless of the finish, that Weaver set up numerous high-quality chances is an encouraging sign for what is to come.

Both Sanchez and Weaver are looking to make a name for themselves in the league and eventually on the world stage with the USWNT. Their performances here showed that they’re capable of doing that.

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