The NWSL debut of the Boston Breakers and the Washington Spirit will demonstrate whether or not the teams improved upon their perceived weaknesses. Both sides are expected to stick with their preseason formation which would result in the Spirit using 4-3-3 and Boston 4-4-2.
Boston Breakers vs. Washington Spirit: Preview
Washington and Boston both experienced a rocky preseason run, but they’ll be looking to put that behind them as the NWSL season kicks off.
Washington Spirit
The defence is a major concern for the Breakers. Bianca D’Agostino was moved from the midfield in order to boost the back line, but her recent ACL tear means that she’ll miss much of the season. The attack is in good shape thanks to the presence of Sydney Leroux, who will be looking to get on the end of balls from fellow USWNT member and midfielder Heather O’Reilly, the team’s top playmaker.
The Spirit couldn’t produce a consistent preseason, mostly due to the absence of their allocated national team defenders Robyn Gayle, Ashlyn Harris and Ali Krieger. Now that all the national team members have returned and are set to play tomorrow, the Spirit need to concentrate on improving their midfield as Diana Matheson is their strongest link. The front-line for the squad is solid with Tiffany McCarty, Stephanie Ochs and Caroline Miller and could test a weakened Breakers back line.
Boston Breakers injuries and absences
Out: Bianca D’Agostino (ACL), Maddy Evans (school commitments), Anisa Guajardo (school commitments), Jessica Luscinski (ankle), Casey Short (ACL).
Washington Spirit injuries and absences
None reported.
Match Date/Time: April 14 2013, 6:30 pm EDT
Venue: Dillboy Stadium, Somerville, MA
TV: The match will be streamed live via the Boston Breakers site ($4.99).
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