FCKC Draw Opener

From FC Kansas City

FC Kansas City ties Sky Blue FC 1-1 in the 2014 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season opener. Amy Rodriguez once again made FC Kansas City’s goal the first in the league. In front of 3,107 fans at Verizon Wireless Field at Durwood Stadium, Rodriguez scored her first ‘Blues’ goal. Katy Freels scored the equalizer for Sky Blue FC early in the second half.

The ‘Blues’ played the first half with their traditional style of heavy possession. Sky Blue had a difficult time breaking through a dangerous midfield and defense; only tallying one shot on goal in the first half. FC Kansas City however had five on target with one finding the back of the net.

Rookie draft pick Kassey Kallman sent a ball across to Rodriguez who slid the ball by Sky Blue goalkeeper Jill Loyden. The goal came at the 42nd minute, which had Kansas City up at half time. Old friends Rodriguez and Lauren Holiday led the ‘Blues’ offensively with 6 and 4 shots, respectively.  Goal scoring Freels led Sky Blue with 3 shots for the night.

The second half saw the same level of intensity from both teams. Kansas City was determined to hold on to the lead created while Sky Blue fought back. A missed clearance led to Freels finding the back of the net unassisted. Rodriguez and Holiday worked the ball in the Sky Blue defense, but couldn’t get another goal. Even with substitutes from both teams, the score stayed at 1-1 at the final whistle.

FC Kansas City hits the road for the next two games. The ‘Blues’ will travel to Maryland to face the Washington Spirit on April 19 at 5:30p.m. CT, then on to Portland to visit the Thorns on April 26 at 9:00p.m. CT. Kansas City will return home on April 30 to take on the Chicago Red Stars at 7:00p.m. CT. For tickets and information call 855.4KC.GOAL or email tickets@kcprosoccer.com