We expected the rematch of Seattle Reign FC hosting FC Kansas City to be another tactical battle between two quality sides, but a red card to Lauren Barnes in only the 4th minute surprised everyone. Seattle played a woman down for essentially the entire match, but some smart tactical shifts and Kansas City’s lack of interest in pressing the game rewarded the home side with a hard-fought 1-1 draw.
Seattle adjusted to the ejection in several ways. First and foremost, Jess Fishlock moved to center back. Seattle’s outside backs also squeezed in more, helping to clog the area in front of goal and deny Kansas City opportunities within the box.