Playing their second game in four days, the Orlando Pride ran out of steam in the final 15 minutes and succumbed to a pair of late goals by the visiting Portland Thorns, who erased a 1-0 deficit and stormed back to spoil their hosts' perfect home record. It was a harsh reminder that it's never over until it's over, as Orlando Clubs were just minutes away from four wins out of four since Thursday.
Jasmyne Spencer's magnificent strike deserved to be a game winner but 'deserve' has no place in soccer. The Pride may have been the better team for the majority of the 90-plus minutes on Sunday afternoon, but the Thorns made the most of their chances. Orlando couldn't do that, thanks in part to the play of Portland goalkeeper Michelle Betos, who made sparkling saves on Dani Weatherholt, Spencer, and Alex Morgan to keep the Thorns in the match.
Many Pride players will depart to represent their countries in the Rio Olympics, including Orlando's entire starting back line. But Orlando won't be the only team affected by midseason international departures. The Pride will have two more home matches before hitting the road again, giving Orlando a chance to regain their winning ways at home.
We hope you enjoy these images from the match, even if you're not crazy about the 2-1 final score in favor of the visitors.