Match preview: Utah Royals FC host Portland Thorns FC

Match Details

Utah Royals FC (0-1-1)
vs. Portland Thorns FC (2-0-0)

When: Saturday, October 3 | 8 PM MT

Where: Rio Tinto Stadium | Sandy, UT

Live Stream: CBS Sports Network

Utah vs. Portland Thorns FC 2020 meetings: 1

• Sunday, September 20 - PTFC, 3; Utah, 0

All-Time Series Record: 1-3-3

Continue rebuilding

It’s the second time Utah will face Portland in 2020, having played to a 3-0 loss two weeks ago. In that game, Portland controlled much of the first half, outshooting Utah 8-4 while holding over 60 percent of the possession. The Thorns were the first to take the 1-0 lead, with Simone Charley scoring in the 35th minute. Portland continued their lead into the second half as Sophia Smith and Lindsey Horan both added goals to make it 3-0 for the final score. URFC has a 1-3-3 record against the Thorns.

Utah is in a better position this time around, having tied OL Reign last week, earning their first point of the Fall Series. The team looked better offensively, playing under interim head coach Amy LePeilbet. The Royals started strong, with Diallo scoring in the ninth minute to take a 1-0 lead. Tziarra King added her second goal of 2020 and first of the NWSL Fall Series to double the lead to 2-0. However, the Reign scored two goals in the 23rd minute and 28th minute for the draw.

Utah must continue to rebuild after a disappointing 3-0 loss in Portland. Defensively, there are some holes that the team must fix to keep Portland at bay this time around. Portland is in the lead in the Fall Series, and they will be a tough challenge for the Royals. Should the Royals keep a tight defense, they can hold the Thorns and hopefully make it a more competitive game.

Utah Royals FC Injury Report

OUT: Desiree Scott (Opt Out), Diana Matheson (Opt Out), Kelley O’Hara (Opt Out), Gunny Jonsdottir (Loan), Rachel Corsie (Loan), Nicole Barnhart (Left Achilles)

Questionable: Arielle Ship (Right Knee)