SAN DIEGO – The Wave returned to action back at Snapdragon stadium after a disappointing loss last time out vs rivals Angel City. That game drew in the second-largest audience in NWSL history! The game tonight ended very similarly for the Wave with a 2-1 defeat. The game was back and forth with the Reigns Bethany Balcer who scored both goals for her club. The 18-year-old Jaedyn Shaw tied the game up at 1-1 but Balcer’s second goal in the 77th minute would put the Reign over the top.

Here are three takeaways from the game

Late Game

The Wave as of late has blown to games due to goals in the late minutes of the game. If the Wave want to win come playoff time they will have to have better defense in the late game. Often times when the opposition scores a late goal, the Wave tend to come out with more urgency to score. They need to have that energy when it is a tie game so they can be the ones victorious. 

Controversy 

The Wave was at the receiving end of some controversy on the pitch tonight. Goalie Kailen Sheridan received a red card in the 87th minute for a foul committed against an attacking player. It was up for debate but the officials decided on a red card that would send her home early. There was also an opportunity late for Amirah Ali to get a shot on goal where she was blatantly held by a defender which was not called. 

Saying Goodbye, For Now 

Alex Morgan and teammate Naomi Girma are heading to represent the American National team at the Women’s world cup. The Wave will have to play without the two in the meantime. The Wave hope to hold down the fort while their two stars are out representing their country. We wish them the best of luck. 

The Wave will be back on the pitch on Wednesday with a chance of redemption against Angel City at 7:30 PST in Los Angeles