Houston Dash Vs Portland Thorns: 3 things we learned – Dash in the Final
By Drew Hubbard
2. Nichelle Prince makes her mark
After not starting any of the preliminary stage games, Canadian forward Nichelle Prince started both knockout stage matches, the first against the Utah Royals followed by the semifinal against Portland.
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Against Utah, she made her mark on the match by hitting the post in the 39th minute, the best chance of the game that would later go to penalties. In the semi-final against Portland, she remained active on the wings to create opportunities for her side.
Specifically on the right, Prince attempted seven crosses. Only one of those were successful but her passing from the flank created chances for Houston and put the Thorns under pressure. With terrific pace, she presented a consistent danger to Portland and was often the Dash’s primary outlet on the right flank.
As the Dash head to the final, Prince may be more effective on the other side. Rather than sending in crosses, she could cut inside and shoot with her right. Wherever she is played, though, her attacking ability impacts the Dash’s overall offensive threat.