San Diego Wave FC delivered a clinical attacking performance at Snapdragon Stadium on Friday night, defeating Utah Royals 4-2 in an absorbing NWSL fixture.
Trinity Byars led the way with a brace, scoring in the 4th and 63rd minutes, while Melanie Barcenas and Ludmila also found the net for the Wave. Utah stayed firmly in the contest through Mina Tanaka, whose goals in the 29th and 47th minutes twice gave the visitors a route back into the match.
Byars gives San Diego an early advantage
The Wave made the ideal start when Byars struck in the 4th minute, putting the home side ahead early. Utah responded with greater control of the ball and finished with 54 percent possession, but San Diego carried a sharp edge in the final third.
Tanaka brought the Royals level in the 29th minute, only for Barcenas to restore San Diego’s lead in the 40th minute. The Wave took a 2-1 advantage into the interval after an open first half in which both sides created opportunities.
Tanaka responds, but Wave pull clear
Utah emerged from the break with immediate intent. Tanaka scored her second goal in the 47th minute to make it 2-2 and ensure the Royals had fully earned their way back into the fixture.
San Diego’s response was decisive. Byars completed her brace in the 63rd minute, reclaiming the lead for the Wave, before Ludmila added a fourth in the 70th minute to give the hosts breathing room.
The Wave were efficient despite seeing less of the ball, registering five shots on target from 13 attempts. Utah produced 12 shots but managed only two efforts on target, a difference that proved crucial as San Diego converted four of their five on-frame attempts.
What’s next
The result leaves both sides with identical 11-3-7 records. San Diego Wave FC return to action on Friday, August 28, when they host Racing Louisville FC. Utah Royals will next face Orlando Pride on Saturday, August 29.
Goals: San Diego Wave FC — Trinity Byars 4′, 63′; Melanie Barcenas 40′; Ludmila 70′. Utah Royals — Mina Tanaka 29′, 47′.
