Utah Royals FC remain undefeated in three with 1-0 win over Chicago Red Stars

Utah Royals FC had their second home match of the 2019 season. The match started off in true Utah Royals fashion, with lots of quick chances. In just the first few minutes of the game, Utah had two quality chances that started the game off with a bang.

Utah’s defense was strong throughout the first half other than an early defensive error that lead to a huge point blank save from Nicole Barnhart. Other than this scary moment early on, Utah was pretty solid defensively.

LaBonta stood out in the first half, creating a number of opportunities for herself as well as some pretty incredible service to her teammates.

The remainder of the first half was incredibly back and forth between Chicago and Utah. Both teams had chances but neither was able to capitalize. Just before the half Chicago’s Katlyn Johnson was shown red for a bad foul on Vero Boquete.

This game went to half 0-0.

Coming out of the half things seemed to lull a little bit for Utah. Though the game remained pretty back and forth and both teams were finding plenty of chances, neither could capitalize or find the rhythm of the game.

The last 10 minutes would be the most exciting of the match. In the 82nd minute, URFC would earn a free kick just outside the box. The shot, taken by Boquete rang off the crossbar, but sparked something in Utah.

It would take just 2 more minutes for URFC to find the winner in this one. Amy Rodriguez found herself at the center of the box and slotted the ball into the bottom left corner of the net. Assisted by Gunny Jónsdóttir, this would be the difference between these teams tonight as URFC took their third win in three matches.

Utah, in addition to remaining undefeated through 3 games in 2019, has shut out all three of their opponents as well.

The next match for URFC will be May 11 versus the Houston Dash.