The Utah Royals secured a 2-1 victory against the Denver Summit on Saturday night in the National Women’s Soccer League, extending their unbeaten streak to nine games.
Kiana Palacios and Mina Tanaka contributed to the Royals’ win, while the match saw other NWSL action with the Houston Dash defeating Angel City 2-1 and the North Carolina Courage overcoming Racing Louisville 2-1.
Royals Match Highlights
The Royals, now holding a record of 7-2-2, matched the Portland Thorns at the top of the league standings, with both teams set to face each other next weekend in Portland.
Mina Tanaka scored the decisive goal in the 72nd minute via a penalty kick, awarded after Cloé Lacasse was fouled by Ayo Oke in the box. Kiana Palacios opened the scoring for the Royals in the 20th minute, netting her first career NWSL goal following a turnover by Eva Gaetino.
Denver Summit, with a record of 3-4-3, equalized just before halftime when Delanie Sheehan assisted Yazmeen Ryan, who scored at the back post.
Houston Dash Ends Winless Streak
The Houston Dash achieved their first win in 51 days, defeating Angel City 2-1. Maggie Graham scored the winning goal in stoppage time, firing a shot from just outside the box after a series of one-touch passes.
Kat Radar had previously put the Dash on the scoreboard in the 17th minute. Angel City equalized shortly after through a penalty kick by Maiara Carolina Niehues.
The Dash played without goalkeeper Jane Campbell, who sustained a head injury in a previous match against San Diego. Caroline Delisle stepped in for her first career NWSL start.
North Carolina Courage Achieves Milestone
The North Carolina Courage celebrated their 100th regular-season win with a 2-1 victory over Racing Louisville FC. Ashley Sanchez scored her seventh goal of the season, while Evelyn Ijeh netted her second in as many games.
Arin Wright scored in stoppage time for Louisville, who now hold a record of 2-7-1.