Ashley Sanchez scores stunner in Spirit win over OL Reign

Ashley Sanchez lifted Washington to a 2-1 win over OL Reign Sunday in a preview of Wednesday’s Challenge Cup semifinal.

The star midfielder helped out on both sides of the ball, pulling the string of the Spirit’s attack while winning the ball in the middle of the park.

Sanchez’s attacking talents were on full display when she broke the scoreless deadlock in the 14^th minute, firing a screamer from the top of the box to put the game at 1-0.

Ashley Sanchez from distance 🤯🤯🤯@WashSpirit | #OneSpirit pic.twitter.com/QkimEmoWLI

— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) May 1, 2022

OL Reign’s Rose Lavelle responded shortly after the break, tapping in a deflected shot to equalize. The Spirit, however, regained their lead in the 66^th minute, with Ashley Hatch nodding in a lofted cross from Trinity Rodman.

AND THAT IS HOW YOU START OFF THE SEASON!! pic.twitter.com/6gjpms8bxk

— Washington Spirit (@WashSpirit) May 1, 2022

Phallon Tullis-Joyce was tested in net, with the OL Reign keeper notching ten saves to keep her side within one heading into the final stretch.

The 2-1 scoreline held, however, securing Washington three points in the NWSL regular-season standings.

OL Reign will have a shot at redemption on Wednesday when the two clubs face off in the Challenge Cup semifinal at Audi Field.