By deploying three unheralded rookies up front, handing a 15-year-old midfielder her first professional start and dropping four U.S. national team regulars from the lineup, Washington Spirit Coach Mark Parsons rolled the dice on his depth for Wednesday’s NWSL Challenge Cup clash with the Orlando Pride at Audi Field.
Sure enough, the Spirit looked like a talented but discordant blend of starters, reserves and prospects for stretches. But a 10-minute barrage of highlight-reel strikes — courtesy of Lena Silano, Sam Staab and Marissa Sheva — put the Spirit in front, Ashley Sanchez added a late insurance goal, and Washington recorded a 4-2 win.