Seattle Reign FC vs. Sky Blue FC: Preview

Seattle is winless so far this season, despite consistently improving performances from Jessica Fishlock, Kiersten Dallstream, Christine Nairn and Theresa Noyola. Even more importantly, Lindsay Taylor shined on Thursday against Washington for the first time since the preseason. Five players can’t pull the team into the top four, but they are inching closer to earning a victory.

Seattle controlled possession in the first half of their game on Thursday, but wasn’t nearly as good in the second half. Noyola equalized in the 46^th minute, and their downfall was ultimately sitting back after that goal. By sitting back and defending rather than trying to create something going forward, Washington was able to test their defenders for prolonged periods. This weekend as Seattle enters into a rematch against Sky Blue, they will need to play with the same energy they used at the start of Thursday’s game which led to their early 5^th minute lead.

Sky Blue -- or more accurately, Jim Gabarra -- will need to decide where Kelley O’Hara will play. On Thursday, she blocked multiple shots from Nikki Washington and Alex Morgan. However, O’Hara might be best suited to play up front alongside Lisa De Vanna in this game. De Vanna was unsupported up top against Portland, and Sky Blue might have taken control of the game earlier if she had O’Hara with her up top.

Gabarra could start with O’Hara, De Vanna and Taylor Lytle up top. Lytle has been a consistent performer for Sky Blue and scored the winning goal on Thursday. She also helped her team keep a clean sheet in their first game against Seattle with an important clearance off the line.

Seattle Reign FC Injuries

Out: Keelin Winters, Elli Reed, Hope Solo, Amy Rodriguez, Megan Rapinoe

Doubtful: Kate Deines

Sky Blue Injuries

Doubtful: Jill Loyden, Brittany Bock

Match Date/Time: Sunday May 19, 6:00 pm PT

Venue: Starfire Stadium, Seattle, WA

Online: NWSL Soccer YouTube Channel