NFL
By: Ashmere Prasad
The Bay Area exceeded Bay FC’s home-opener expectations and filled PayPal Park on Saturday evening. 18,000 fans gathered in San Jose to witness history against the Houston Dash. Words can’t describe how spectacular it was to witness this historical moment for the Bay Area and women’s sports.
Bay FC started the first half strong thanks to the momentum of the fans with their speed and ball control. In the 18th minute, Deyna Castellanos made history and scored the first goal for BAY FC at their home stadium. The roar from the fans erupted and could probably be heard throughout San Jose.
The Dash tied the game at one in the 66th minute with an unreal header from Diana Ordóñez on the back post. Fans could feel the energy shift in the stadium and coped with the tie by starting a wave. Although it briefly lightened the mood, around the 83rd minute a handball was called on Bay FC. In the 87th minute, Ordóñez scored her second goal off a blocked rebound.
With nine minutes of extra time announced, BAY FC fans had a sliver of hope to win the match. Rachel Kundananji scored her first goal of the season three minutes into extras and the stadium was on fire. There was a chance for victory.
Unfortunately, the Dash had more energy to close the game and scored in the final minute of extras. The stadium was filled until the last second.
BAY FC has now dropped their last two games in extras, but the team reflected on the support they received for their home opener. “We are very happy. We knew our fans were going to be the best in the league. They showed it today. They were right there with us even during the tough moments.” (Deyna Castellanos)
The NWSL will take a week break for the She Believes Cup starting on April 9 in Atlanta, Georgia. Until April 14th, Bay FC and their fans can bask in the overwhelming support they showed in their home opener. The wins will come.
