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OL Reign defeat Portland Thorns 2-1 in Cascadia Rivalry

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OL REIGN DEFEAT PORTLAND THORNS/JWS

OL Reign snapped the Thorns’ four-game unbeaten streak in Providence Park on Sunday, defeating Portland 2-1.

The action got underway early, with all the game’s goals taking place in the first 15 minutes of play.

The Thorns struck first in the 4th minute when a whipped-in ball by Crystal Dunn forced Karen Bardsley off her line. The keeper’s batted away block landed favorably for Christine Sinclair, who sent in a chip over Bardsley’s head to put Portland up 1-0.

Only five minutes later, Megan Rapinoe responded with an equalizing goal off a Reign free kick. The set piece was Rapinoe’s first NWSL goal in 1,047 days.

OL Reign pounced again in the 15th minute when Shirley Cruz tucked in a cross from close range to double her side’s lead to 2-1.

The second half featured more back-and-forth play worthy of the league’s premier rivalry, but no goals to show for it. OL Reign managed to keep the score line at 2-1 to solidify a critical away win for the club.

Portland was considered a heavy league favorite going into the Reign matchup, but their loss has shaken up the NWSL standings. After the first weeks of play, there is a four-team tie for first place.

OL Reign will now head home to host the Washington Spirit on May 30. The Thorns will look to bounce back quickly in their game against the Orlando Pride on Wednesday.