Washington Spirit Vs Houston Dash: 3 things we learned – No Lavelle, no problem

1. The Spirit want the ball

The Washington Spirit ended the game with 59% possession. In the first half, that figure was as high as 69% possession. This was the first time they won the possession battle. Not only did they have the ball, but they made it count, using their command of the ball to push high up the pitch and create chances.

Feist’s goal came from great passing across the field. The buildup consisted of 18 passes. All in all, the Spirit’s passing was some of the best we have seen this entire tournament, completing 507 passes in total.

They have a dominant midfield, with or without Rose Lavelle, and look to control matches as a result of that superior unit.  On this occasion, Washington were able to use the entire squad to build together and create chances, leaning on their play with the ball to dictate the tempo and control proceedings.

In a congested competition as this, not only is the win and three points vital but so is the command they showed. The Spirit can control matches, and that makes them dangerous.