Pride a challenge for defense

After almost three weeks on the road, the Dash return home Wednesday to take on the Orlando Pride.

The teams last met June 27, when the Dash won 2-1 in Orlando. Trailing 1-0, Dash forward Kealia Ohai scored in the 79th minute and Sofia Huerta scored in the 83rd minute on a penalty kick.

Ohai says the Dash need to have a stronger first half this time around.

“We were definitely happy to walk away with three points (last time against Orlando), but I think we need to start this game stronger than we did last game,” Ohai said. “In the first half, they had so many opportunities.”

The Pride have one of the of the best offenses in the NWSL, as the team ranks in the top half of the league in goals and second in assists.

Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell says she’ll keep her usual approach to prepare, but Orlando’s speed is something Houston needs to be mentally prepared for.

“We know they’re probably the fastest front line in the league, on top of them scoring goals and being very successful offensively,” Campbell said. “I think that just means, for us, that our defensive line, and me especially, need to be on our a-game.”

This is the third meeting between the teams. Orlando won 1-0 early in the season, and the Dash won two weeks ago.

“I think they’re looking for a little bit of revenge,” Campbell said. “For us, we just need to match their competitiveness and take it to them at home, on our field, with our crowd and try and get the W. It’s going to be an intense game.”