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Lindsey Horan scores as Portland Thorns secure NWSL shield

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Lindsey Horan was the difference maker Sunday as the Portland Thorns took home a 1-0 road victory over the Houston Dash to secure the NWSL Shield. It’s the team’s second Shield after they took home the accolade in 2016.

Horan scored the game’s loan goal in the 43rd minute to secure the team’s third championship this season. It’s the 25th goal of her Thorns career, joining Christine Sinclair and Allie Long as the only Thorns with at least 25 career goals with the team.

Earlier this year, the Thorns captured the NWSL Challenge Cup and the International Champions Cup.

Kristie Mewis nearly equalized twice but couldn’t send one home for the Dash who currently sit tied for the sixth and final playoff spot. For Thorns’ goalkeeper Bella Bixby, it’s her eighth clean sheet of the season and the team’s 12th shutout, which ties a single-season NWSL record.

The Thorns finish off the season against the North Carolina Courage on Saturday, Oct. 30 at 10 p.m. ET. Meanwhile the Houston Dash will play the Washington Spirit in an attempt to secure the final playoff spot on Sunday, Oct. 31 at 2 p.m. ET.