It would be understandable to look at the taking on of the Utah Royals at Toyota Park tonight as the first real test of the post-Huerta Red Stars, and for much of the 90 minutes played on Saturday, Chicago looked very up to the task.
While none of the players involved in the massive three-team midseason trade ended up playing (nor Morgan Brian, who was a late scratch from the starting lineup), the Red Stars showed that they still have the ability to win now, against a team known for its defensive stability.
That narrative played out for much of the first half; Casey Short, getting her first start of the year, found herself frequently isolated on her side, but she took on the Royals midfield with aplomb.