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Defender Reyna Reyes’ goal in the 16th minute held up as the Portland Thorns earned a 1-0 victory over the visiting Orlando Pride on Saturday night.

Portland (3-2-3, 12 points) controlled play from the outset and never gave the potent Pride (5-2-0, 15 points) much opportunity to threaten while securing a third straight match without a loss. The Thorns, who held a 7-4 advantage with on-target shots, have won six straight home matches versus Orlando, which has dropped two of three.

The home side held a good chunk of possession out of the gate and was rewarded for its work Off a nifty touch pass from Reilyn Turner, Reyes found just enough of an opening at the top of the box to drill the ball past Orlando keeper Anna Moorhouse.

Though the Pride modestly threatened at times in the first half, notably via star Barbra Banda, Portland nearly extended its lead just prior to the 40-minute mark. After Moorhouse came too far out of her goal, Pride center back Zara Chavoshi stepped in front of the line to kick away Turner’s strike.

Moorhouse exited early in the second half for reported concussion observation. She was replaced by McKinley Crone.

Meanwhile, Orlando’s only true scoring chance of the night came just past the 60-minute mark. On the attack, Banda found Ally Watt in the box, but she didn’t get enough on her shot to prevent Thorns keeper Mackenzie Arnold from making the save.

–Field Level Media