March 31, (THEWILL) – The Houston Dash spoiled Bay FC’s home opener with a dramatic 3-2 victory on Saturday night at PayPal Park with Asisat Oshoala unable to re-enact her heroics in last week’s debut match. A sellout crowd of 18,000 witnessed an enthralling encounter as the expansion side took the lead through Deyna Castellanos’ first NWSL goal, only for the Dash to fight back.
Trailing 1-0 at halftime, Houston equalised in the 66th minute when Diana Ordonez headed home Maria Sanchez’s cross. The visitors then went ahead from the penalty spot, with Ordonez burying the rebound after her initial effort was saved. However, Racheal Kundananji’s injury-time strike made it 2-2 on her NWSL debut.
Just when it seemed the match was destined for a draw, Havana Solaun had the final say. Deep into stoppage time, the midfielder curled home a sublime left-footed effort to snatch all three points for the Dash in the 98th minute, sparking wild celebrations.
Despite the loss, Bay FC saw an encouraging debut from substitute Kundananji, brought in for Oshoala just after the hour mark, finding the net. Meanwhile, the Dash will be buoyed by their first win of the campaign after an opening day to remember in San Jose.
The thrilling encounter kicks off what promises to be an exciting inaugural NWSL season for the Bay Area expansion club. Both sides now turn their attention to the upcoming international break.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
