Mal Pugh scores brace in victorious return to Red Stars

Mallory Pugh returned to the Red Stars with a bang, notching two goals and an assist to help Chicago to a 4-2 win over Orlando Sunday.

Pugh had been out for a month after sustaining a concussion during the Challenge Cup tournament.

The USWNT star’s explosive second half started in the 54th minute. She dished out a well-placed ball to set up Bianca St-Georges, putting the Red Stars up 2-0.

.@biancastgeorges 2nd of the year gives Chicago a ✌️ goal lead!@chicagoredstars | #MKOT pic.twitter.com/LrgM1qeXXx

— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) May 23, 2022

Ten minutes later, Pugh slotted home her first goal of the regular season, breaking up a Pride pass out the back before firing a low shot to put the game at 3-0.

.@MalPugh gets in on the fun!@chicagoredstars | #MKOT pic.twitter.com/PQ7DEZQuSX

— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) May 23, 2022

Pugh added to her tally in the 86th minute, following up on a blocked penalty kick to give Chicago the 4-1 lead.

.@MalPugh will not be denied 👊@chicagoredstars | #MKOT pic.twitter.com/EY6qW4s3N4

— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) May 23, 2022

The Red Stars walked away with a 4-2 victory after a lively end to the game, logging three points in the NWSL standings.