Dash and Bay FC Clash in Crucial Post-Break Showdown
The Houston Dash are back in action this Saturday, August 2nd, as they hit the road to face Bay FC in what’s shaping up to be a pivotal match for both teams’ playoff hopes in the NWSL. After a league-wide summer break, both clubs are trying to reset and reignite their seasons, and this weekend’s clash in San Jose is going to be one to watch.
For the Dash, it’s been a bumpy ride heading into the break. The team hasn’t picked up a win since May 11 and went five matches without a point before the pause. But the time off wasn’t wasted. Houston stayed active with a couple of friendlies in July, including a strong 4-0 win against Rayadas de Monterrey and a solid 2-0 victory over Carolina Ascent FC. Players like Delanie Sheehan, Natalie Jacobs, Avery Patterson, Maggie Graham, and Kiki Van Zanten all got on the scoresheet, which could signal a positive shift heading into league play.
Also Read:- Earthquake Surprises NYC and North Jersey, Shaking Felt Across Region
- CM Punk’s Long-Awaited WWE Comeback Ends in Chaos at SummerSlam 2025
However, injuries have been an issue. Goalkeeper Liz Beardsley remains sidelined on the 45-day injury list, and forwards Ramona Bachmann and Amanda West are both out for the season. That said, there’s still plenty of depth in this squad. Several Dash players have gained international experience recently—Yazmeen Ryan and Patterson played for the U.S., with both scoring their first national team goals. Michelle Alozie had a standout tournament with Nigeria, netting a dramatic semifinal winner en route to the team’s 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.
Adding to their firepower, Houston signed Canadian international Clarissa Larisey from Crystal Palace. She brings experience from Europe, including Champions League appearances and 27 goals across 68 matches. She could be a real difference-maker heading into this final stretch.
As for Bay FC, they’re only slightly ahead in the standings and just as desperate for points. Before the break, they had only two wins in their last eight matches. Several of their players were also active during the FIFA window, including Asisat Oshoala for Nigeria, Racheal Kundananji for Zambia, and Princess Marfo for Ghana. Kundananji, in particular, had a standout run with three goals and an assist in four games. The club has also added new talent, including goalkeeper Leah Freeman and forward Onyeka Gamero, formerly with FC Barcelona.
Last time these two teams met back in May, it ended in a 2-2 draw in Houston. Now, both sides are looking for more than just a point. With Bay FC just three points out of playoff position and the Dash trailing by seven, Saturday night’s match could be a defining moment in their seasons.
Catch it live at 10 p.m. ET on ION.
Read More:
0 Comments