NFL
By: Ashmere Prasad
Bay FC won their first road game of the season against the Carolina Courage, 3-1, on Saturday afternoon. Alex Pfeiffer scored her second goal of the season in the 19th minute, Keira Barry scored her first NWSL goal, and Dorian Bailey scored the third goal in her season debut.
“Obviously delighted with the three points today,” said Bay FC Head Coach Emma Coates. “Particularly the manner of the performance in the first half and the resilience we showed at the end of the game. Just a really pleasing three points and still lots for us to work on and build on.”
The Gang’s All Here
Bay’s combination up front with Christina Girelli, Barry, and Pfeffier was a lethal one in this matchup. 18-year-old Pfeffier showcased her speed, control, and insane soccer IQ. She beat her defender, drove inside, and scored off her left foot, squeezing between the goalie and the near post.
Girelli played back-to-back 90-minute matches and has put her veteran experience on display. The Italian native dominated possession and created chances for the young wingers. Head Coach Coates said the three have different backgrounds, but their differences were intentional.
“You look at Keira and the speed and her directness, that’s a real threat. [It’s a] real threat the way that Alex gets the ball faces up, and obviously, some of Cristiana’s back-to-goal play, it’s just more understanding each other and the team, and understanding what each player needs. And I think we did that really well tonight. And I thought, in particular, some of Cristiana’s back-to-goal play I thought was outstanding.”
This Saturday, Bay FC returns home to face the Washington Spirit, who went scoreless in Denver against the new club. Summit made history with 63,000 fans for their home opener and set a new NWSL attendance record.
“It’s always exciting to play one of the best teams,” Barry said on Tuesday. “I think like all performances coming into the game as well, like that’s only going to help. It’s going to be a fun game. Two good teams going up against each other.”
This Saturday will also be a Hello Kitty night at PayPal Park. Fans will receive Hello Kitty merch upon arrival and enjoy Hello Kitty-themed activities around the arena.
