Despite a strong performance from Jane Campbell highlighted by a saved penalty kick, the Houston Dash failed to challenge Utah Royals FC falling in a 1-0 loss at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy, Utah.
Utah dominated Houston in possession, 63.7 percent to 36.3 percent, forcing the Dash to rely on its counterattack to provide the bulk of its offense, however, Utah’s backline anchored by Becky Sauerbrunn prevented Houston from registering a shot on goal.
In the 51st minute, Erika Tymrak provided Utah with the game winner, netting the lone goal of the match. Following a failed Dash offensive chance, Royals FC midfielder Gunnhildur Yrsa Jónsdóttir took advantage of Houston’s misplaced defenders and made a long run down the right flank.