North Carolina moves atop NWSL standings with win over Pride

North Carolina defeated Orlando 2-0 Saturday night to capture the team’s fourth consecutive win and three points in the NWSL standings.

The Courage got off to the races early, scoring in the game’s third minute. Picking off an Orlando pass in the midfield, Debinha darted into the box where she beat Ashlyn Harris near post for the go-ahead goal.

Early fireworks for @Debinha7 ⚽️💥#ORLvNC | https://t.co/0LtSAUK1Jw | #NWSL21 pic.twitter.com/BBcVmyFqGo

— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) July 4, 2021

North Carolina kept the pressure up throughout the first half, but a handful of crucial saves from Ashlyn Harris, including a Courage PK, kept the scoresheet at 1-0 heading into the break. Saturday marked Harris’ third save from the spot this season.

I mean, come on @Ashlyn_Harris 🤯#ORLvNC | https://t.co/0LtSAUK1Jw | #NWSL21 pic.twitter.com/O862Gpvlwn

— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) July 4, 2021

The Courage struck again in the 66^th minute with a close-range rocket from Havana Solaun, assisted by Jessica McDonald. The build-up effort stretched North Carolina’s lead to 2-0.

Havana Goal-aun ⚽️💥#ORLvNC | https://t.co/0LtSAUK1Jw | #NWSL21 pic.twitter.com/gOwRIDUHiQ

— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) July 4, 2021

Next up: The Courage will look to hold onto the top spot when they face off against the Spirit on July 10. Orlando will go out on the road to take on Racing Louisville on Friday.