Nichelle Prince leads Dash to Challenge Cup win over Racing Louisville

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@HoustonDash

The Houston Dash ended their Challenge Cup campaign on a high, defeating Racing Louisville 2-1 in the clubs’ final group-stage matchup on Sunday.

While both sides were out of semifinal contention heading into their matchup, Houston and Louisville hoped to enter the regular season with a victory under their belt.

The Dash started on the front foot with Nichelle Prince opening up scoring in the 24th minute, picking her defender’s pocket before slotting home the go-ahead goal.

Racing Louisville responded just five minutes later, with Jaelin Howell firing in a deflected set-piece clearance to equalize. The finish marks the MAC Hermann winner’s first professional goal.

Houston Dash restored their lead in the 35th minute after a well-struck corner from Maria Sanchez snuck past the Racing Louisville keeper, with the goal credited to Ally Prisock.

Despite a late push from Racing Louisville, the 2-1 scoreline held through the second half, with neither side able to find the back of the net after the break.

Houston and Louisville exit the pre-season tournament with six points, with the Dash notching two wins and Racing Louisville recording one.