Utah Royals produced a composed second-half turnaround at Inter&Co Stadium, recovering from a goal down to defeat Orlando Pride 2-1 in Saturday’s National Women’s Soccer League fixture.
Barbra Banda had given Orlando the edge shortly before the interval, striking in the 44th minute to send the hosts into half-time with a 1-0 lead. But Utah responded immediately after the restart, with Cloé Lacasse levelling the match in the 50th minute.
The Royals steadily took command of the contest. They finished with 60.2 percent possession, 18 shots and six efforts on target, compared with Orlando’s eight shots and two on target. Utah also earned seven corners to the Pride’s two, underlining the visitors’ growing territorial control.
The decisive moment arrived in the 69th minute when Paige Cronin found the net to complete the comeback. Utah then saw out a lengthy closing stretch, including 12 minutes of added time, to secure an important away result.
It was a disciplined recovery from the Royals after Banda’s first-half goal, while Orlando were left unable to turn their interval advantage into points. The match had its share of bite, with Kate Del Fava and Tatumn Milazzo booked early for Utah, while Lizbeth Ovalle and Angelina saw yellow for the Pride. Utah’s Ana Tejada was also cautioned in the 81st minute.
Orlando Pride return to action on Sunday, September 6, when they host Houston Dash. Utah Royals next face Boston Legacy FC on Friday, September 4.
Goals
- Orlando Pride: Barbra Banda 44′
- Utah Royals: Cloé Lacasse 50′, Paige Cronin 69′
