The Orlando Pride fielded a significantly rotated lineup against LD Alajuelense in the CONCACAF W Champions Cup, emerging with a 3-0 victory Tuesday night against their Costa Rican foes.
“It’s a really pleasing result. A lot of positives out of the game,” said Orlando coach Seb Hines. “First of all, getting a win, getting that feeling back, secondary, scoring some goals as well, which we’ve needed.
Neither team was able to break through in the first half. Orlando’s lineup looked disjointed at the start of the match, but some halftime adjustments from Hines made all the difference.
Orlando took the lead in the 50th minute thanks to a goal from Julie Doyle. Carson Pickett came on as a halftime substitute, and her low cross found the onrushing Doyle, who tapped it in to give the Pride a 1-0 lead.
Pickett added a goal of her own in the 64th minute with an absolute rocket from outside the box. Her left-footed shot flew past the outstretched hand of goalkeeper Noelia Bermúdez and into the top corner to put Orlando up 2-0.
Pride midfielder Luana made her first appearance in purple since her Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosis last year, coming on in the 70th minute for Ally Lemos.
“I think the biggest highlight of tonight was getting Luana back onto the field. I think that was a real special moment for everyone,” Hines added. “For her to go through what she’s been through, and then go into the field and show her class, was so pleasing to see. So a lot of really good moments today.”
Simone Jackson made it 3-0 in the 81st minute. She found a tight angle on the left side, perfectly placing it between the keeper and the near post to put the game to bed for the Pride.
Orlando will look to build on this positive momentum on Sunday with a trip to Chicago to take on the Stars in league play.
