The Orlando Pride are currently celebrating a two-game unbeaten streak, but extending that streak could prove to be difficult.
On Wednesday, Orlando starts a three-game road trip with a matchup against the Chicago Red Stars. In addition to combating history, as Orlando has never beaten the Red Stars in five games, the Pride will also potentially battle injuries.
The National Women’s Soccer League announced Tuesday that goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris and forward Alex Morgan were questionable for the Chicago game with a hyperextended left elbow and hyperextended left knee, respectively.
Pride head coach Tom Sermanni seemed to believe his squad was healthy on April 30.
“[We’re feeling] pretty good. I think we’re all pretty much fit and healthy and looking forward to another game,” Sermanni said after training.
Even if Harris is physically cleared to play, she could face discipline handed down by the league. According to a report by ProSoccerUSA.com’s Jordan Culver, the NWSL is investigating an incident in which Harris collided with Seattle Reign FC’s Jodie Taylor in a 1-1 draw on April 28.
After clearing the ball from inside the box, Harris appeared to wrap her right arm around Taylor and threw her to the ground.
Per Culver, the NWSL will make a final decision by the end of Tuesday.
This might be worth the #NWSL disciplinary committee taking a look at, no? pic.twitter.com/1IAkfvxN9Y
— RJ Allen (@TheSoccerCritic) April 29, 2018
Harris’ backup is first-year Pride keeper Haley Kopmeyer. The 27-year-old spent the last four seasons with Seattle Reign FC, playing her most minutes last season when she started 20 of her 20 appearances. Kopmeyer recorded a 7-7-6 record and two clean sheets last season.
The Pride and the Red Stars match up Wednesday night at 7:30 p.m.
For more on the Pride, as they prepare for their first and only three-game road trip of 2018, follow Victor Tan on Twitter at @NDR_VictorTan.
To contact Victor, you can email him at vtan@newdayreview.com.
