Rachel Daly scored twice and registered an assist in her Houston Dash debut as the NWSL club defeated Baylor University 4-2 at Houston Sports Park on Saturday. The scrimmage took place over three 30-minute periods instead of two 45-minute halves.
“Today was beautiful, just perfect. Just going into the game, this is what you train hard for,” Daly said. “I think it translated, all of the hard work we put in on the field. I’m excited to see what this team is like. We played well today, and we can only get better.”
Daly scored the first goal of game in the first period off a Caity Heap pass. The No. 6 overall pick from the 2016 NWSL College Draft collected the ball outside the six-yard box, turned and shot across the keeper for her first goal with the club.
A few minutes later, Daly would return the favor as she held the ball for Heap who converted her first goal of the preseason, giving the Dash a 2-0 lead.
The Dash would take a 3-0 lead when Janine Beckie scored outside the edge of the 18-yard box. The Texas Tech product’s shot was carried by the wind past a lunging goalkeeper.
Carli Lloyd entered the game in the second period playing as a center forward. The reigning FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year was in top form due to her vast international commitments.
“It’s good to be back,” Lloyd said. “Overall, good stuff, great goals and you notice the players who are out there trying to make a mark. Overall, it’s a good group of girls representing the Dash.”
Baylor scored twice in the second period. The first goal came off long ball into the box that Dash goalkeeper Kate Scheele handled until a Baylor player ran into her leading to a goal. The second goal was an own goal by a Dash defender.
Daly scored her second goal in the third period with a right footed shot outside the 18-yard box.
The Dash return to action on Sunday, March 27 against Oregon State University in a preseason tournament at Providence Park. The Dash returns to Texas in early April to prepare for their home opener at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 16 at BBVA Compass Stadium against the Chicago Red Stars. For tickets, partial plans or more information, visit HoustonDashSoccer.com/Tickets.
