Sky Blue FC Looking to Extend Undefeated Home Record Against Portland Thorns FC
Sky Blue FC (4-3-1, 10 points) will return to National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) action on Saturday, looking to win its fourth consecutive home match for the first time in franchise history. On the opposite side of the docket will be Portland Thorns FC (3-1-3, 12 points), with kickoff slated for 7:00 p.m. at Yurcak Field in Piscataway, N.J. Tickets for the match are available now online or by calling 888-SBFC-TIX (888-723-2849).
“After a good week of preparation, we are very eager to get back on home soil tomorrow in front of our fantastic fans,” said Christy Holly, Sky Blue FC head coach. “We know going into the game that we have to meet our potential to ensure we have a positive outcome against a very talented team. We expect to have another exciting match here in New Jersey.”
Sky Blue FC is off to its best home start in club history, and the New Jersey outfit now looks to keep its form at Yurcak Field on Saturday as the NWSL approaches its first international break of the season. Sky Blue FC has produced three dramatic wins at home this year, with game-winning goals coming in the 82nd, 85th and 82nd minute, respectively. Most recently, the team overcame a 1-0 deficit against the Orlando Pride last weekend, as forward Sam Kerr countered a Jasmyne Spencer tally just before halftime to send the two teams into the locker rooms level at one apiece. In the second half, Kerr flicked a header at midfield towards a racing Maya Hayes in the 82nd minute, and the New Jersey native then put away the game-winner to give Sky Blue FC a thrilling 2-1 victory.
Sky Blue FC finished off May with three wins over its final four contests, as Kerr led the way on two goals and a pair of assists. Her outstanding performances were recognized by the NWSL Media Association earlier this week, as the Australia international was named the NWSL Player of the Month. Also this week, Kerr was joined by goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan and midfielder Sarah Killion on the NWSL Team of the Month for May.
Portland enters Saturday night on the heels of a 2-0 win over the Boston Breakers last Friday night at Providence Park. With the victory, the Thorns extended their current unbeaten streak to five games.
Historically, Sky Blue FC leads the all-time series with Portland, 5-4-2, including a 2-1-2 edge in New Jersey. The Thorns swept the 2016 season series with Sky Blue FC over two matches, including a win during the final weekend of the 2016 NWSL regular season at Yurcak Field, 3-1.
Sky Blue FC is kicking off its month-long Pride Celebration against Portland on Saturday night. For a limited time, fans can purchase a Pride Pack that will get them seats for both Sky Blue FC home matches in June, as well as a Pride bracelet.
Kickoff for Saturday’s match is slated for 7:00 p.m., and individual tickets are available now online or by calling 888-SBFC-TIX (888-723-2849). For all of the latest news on Sky Blue FC, visit the team online and follow us on social media: @SkyBlueFC
