Seattle Reign FC found their breakthrough after half-time and finished strongly to earn a 2-0 National Women’s Soccer League victory over Bay FC at Lumen Field on Saturday night.
After a goalless first half, Sofia Huerta put the Reign ahead from the penalty spot in the 51st minute. The home side then made the points safe deep into stoppage time, with substitute Brittany Ratcliffe scoring in the 90+2nd minute to cap a composed display in front of 8,191 supporters in Seattle.
Huerta breaks the deadlock
The opening 45 minutes produced no goals, but Seattle held a slight edge in possession and gradually built more pressure around Bay FC’s penalty area. The Reign ended the match with 51.7% of the ball, 15 shots and six efforts on target, compared with Bay’s 11 shots and four on target.
The decisive moment arrived six minutes after the restart. Huerta stepped up to convert the penalty in the 51st minute, giving Seattle the lead their second-half performance demanded.
Bay FC continued to compete and forced Seattle to remain alert, while the visitors also picked up a yellow card for Keira Barry in the 60th minute. But the Reign’s defensive work and control in key moments protected the clean sheet.
Ratcliffe seals it late
Seattle did not fully put the fixture beyond reach until added time. Ratcliffe, introduced from the bench, struck in the 90+2nd minute to double the advantage and confirm a deserved home result. Mia Fishel was booked for Seattle in the 88th minute before Ratcliffe’s late finish settled the contest.
The victory leaves Seattle Reign FC with an 11-4-8 record, while Bay FC move on at 6-4-13. Seattle’s next fixture is at home to Angel City FC on Wednesday, September 16, while Bay FC travel to face Denver Summit FC the same evening.
Goals
- Seattle Reign FC: Sofia Huerta 51′ (penalty)
- Seattle Reign FC: Brittany Ratcliffe 90+2′
