September 30, (THEWILL) – Bay FC claimed a crucial 1-0 victory against Seattle Reign in their National Women’s Soccer League match in the early hours of Monday.
The win propelled Bay above the playoff line, marking a significant milestone in their 2024 campaign. Conversely, Seattle Reign suffered their third consecutive defeat, falling eight points behind their opponents.
The match-winning goal came in the 27th minute when Nigerian forward Asisat Oshoala successfully converted a penalty kick, which she won after she was fouled in the box by Seattle defender Phoebe McClernon. Oshoala sent goalkeeper Claudia Dickey in the opposite direction to find the net.
Bay dominated possession throughout the first half but, this pressure aside, Seattle began to create opportunities as the half progressed. In the 28th minute, Ji So-Yun’s attempt from the left side of the box rolled wide, while six minutes later, Quinn’s shot from outside the area sailed over the crossbar.
The home team continued their pursuit of an equaliser in the second half. A notable chance opened up when Veronica Latsko delivered a cross into the box for Tziarra King. The ball deflected off Bay defender Caprice Dydasco before reaching King, who managed to make contact but directed it straight into the arms of goalkeeper Katelyn Rowland.
This result has significant implications for both teams in the 2024 NWSL standings. Bay FC’s victory not only boosts their playoff prospects but also widens the gap between them and Seattle Reign. The latter now face an uphill battle to climb back into playoff contention, needing to overcome an eight-point deficit in the remaining fixtures of the season.
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.
