In a night that will be remembered for its record-breaking attendance and intense soccer action, the Houston Dash and Racing Louisville FC played to a spirited 0-0 draw on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at Shell Energy Stadium. The match not only marked the 2024 NWSL home opener for the Dash but also saw a staggering 8,600 fans in attendance, setting a new club record for a single match.
Jane Campbell: A Wall in Goal
Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell was the star of the show, making a career-high 10 saves to secure Houston’s first shutout of the season. Her performance in the first half, which included eight saves, was particularly noteworthy. Campbell’s heroics didn’t stop there; she also made history by becoming the first goalkeeper to make 150 starts across all competitions with a single team, showcasing her consistency and importance to the Dash.
Puntigam’s Crucial Save
The drama reached its peak in the dying moments of the match when Sarah Puntigam made a crucial goal line save to preserve the draw. After Campbell’s initial stop was in danger of crossing the line, Puntigam executed a timely backheel save, preventing the ball from entering the net and ensuring the teams shared the spoils.
A Night of Firsts
The match was a significant one for several players making their debut for the Dash. Yuki Nagasato, a seasoned forward who joined Houston as a free agent, played her first 62 minutes for the team. Rookie Amanda West made her professional debut in the second half, while Swedish International Elin Rubensson also stepped onto the NWSL stage for the first time in the 62nd minute.
Threats and Chances
Both teams created opportunities throughout the match, with Houston’s attack forcing the Louisville defense into action early on. A disallowed goal for Louisville and several crucial saves from Campbell kept the match level. The Dash also had their chances, notably when Diana Ordonez and Amanda West came close to breaking the deadlock.
Looking Ahead
With the home opener now behind them, the Houston Dash set their sights on their next challenge: a road trip to San Jose, California, to face the expansion side Bay FC on Saturday, March 30. The kickoff is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. CT, as the Dash look to continue building momentum in the early stages of the NWSL season.
