Forward Katie Stengel forced a game that was slipping out of the Utah Royals’ control to go their way.
She pushed her way into the box with all North Carolina jerseys surrounding her. When she missed the first chance, she pushed forward again and headed home the equalizer.
Stengel’s goal gave the Royals an even footing in the beginning of the second half, paving the way for a 2-2 draw against North Carolina at Sahlen’s Stadium Saturday.
The Royals survived five more shots and six more corner kicks in the first half and went into halftime down 1-0.