Royals beat Summit 2-1 in NWSL to run unbeaten streak to 9

The Utah Royals continued their impressive unbeaten streak in the National Women’s Soccer League with a 2-1 victory over the Denver Summit on Saturday night. Kiana Palacios and Mina Tanaka were the heroes for the Royals, scoring a goal each to secure the win.

Palacios opened the scoring in the 20th minute, notching her first career NWSL goal after capitalizing on a turnover by Denver’s Eva Gaetino. The Summit fought back and equalized just before halftime, with Delanie Sheehan setting up Yazmeen Ryan for the goal.

In the second half, Tanaka restored the lead for Utah in the 72nd minute with a well-taken penalty kick. Cloé Lacasse was brought down in the box by Ayo Oke, giving Tanaka the opportunity to convert from the spot and secure all three points for her team.

With this victory, the Royals improved their record to 7-2-2 and moved level on points with the Portland Thorns at the top of the standings. The two teams are now set to face off next weekend in what promises to be a crucial clash at the top of the table.

In other NWSL action, the Houston Dash secured a 2-1 win over visiting Angel City, thanks to goals from Kat Radar and Maggie Graham. Graham scored the winner in stoppage time with a superb strike from outside the box, ending Houston’s six-game winless run.

Meanwhile, the North Carolina Courage picked up a 2-1 win on the road against Racing Louisville FC. Ashley Sanchez and Evelyn Ijeh were on target for the Courage, who notched their 100th regular-season victory in club history. Arin Wright scored a consolation goal for Louisville in stoppage time.

Overall, it was a thrilling weekend of NWSL action with plenty of goals and drama. Fans can look forward to more exciting matches as the season progresses.

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