Chalupny sparks Red Stars to 1-0 victory
The Chicago Red Stars treated their fans to just enough offense, earning a 1-0 victory over the Western New York Flash on Thursday at Illinois Benedictine University Sports Complex in Lisle.
A goal early in the second half by captain Lori Chalupny proved to be the difference for the Red Stars (4-6-3), who handed the Flash its first loss in 10 matches. The teams had tied 2-2 earlier this season.
“Taryn (Hemmings) made one of her dashing runs forward, that she is so good at,” Chalupny said. “Inka (Grings) got the ball on frame and it was one of those easy ones (for me). I just tried to get something on it.”
“Lori (Chalupny) is a top-5 player in the league regardless of her national team status,” said Red Stars coach Rory Dames. “She does what she does and we are happy to have her.”
The Flash (6-3-4) had a scoring chance in the sixth minute when Carli Lloyd ripped a shot off the crossbar, but keeper Erin McLeod smothered the loose ball inside the box.
Grings got a close opportunity in the 25th minute, but Flash goalie Adrianna French ended the breakaway with a tackle.
In the second half, the Flash duo of Abby Wambach and Lloyd created multiple scoring opportunities, but the Red Stars’ defense held strong.
The Red Stars travel to play the Washington Spirit on Wednesday.