FootyPop: Preseason Updates, W-League Milestones And an NCAA Check-In

This Monday is unlike many other Mondays. “Why, Hannah?” Well, there’s an FA WSL game on today. Those don’t usually happen on Mondays and, depending on when you’re reading this, we’re less than 24 hours out from the second leg of the UEFA Women’s Champions League Round of 16! Not to mention, less than 24 hours out from a whole bunch of NCAA women’s soccer games. I know, reading all that just made me re-think having a second cup of coffee for the day. I am HYPED. To get ready for the week ahead, you gotta catch up on what went down over the weekend. That’s where I come in. Let’s dive into the latest women’s soccer news. 

Megan Rapinoe is Officially Back with the OL Reign

OL Reign released some pics showing their pink-haired star in training action over the weekend. It’s been *checks notes* a very, very long time since Rapinoe has donned Reign attire and geared up to play an NWSL game with her team. The winger opted out of the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup and Fall Series. However, she impressed in the 2021 SheBelieves Cup for the USWNT, scoring three goals in three games. No doubt it’s a big boost for the Washington club to have her back in the squad. 

Trinity Rodman’s Brace, Sky Blue’s Big Win, and Other Preseason News

Several NWSL clubs played in scrimmages over the weekend as part of preparations for the Challenge Cup beginning in just about a month. 

Washington Spirit rookie Trinity Rodman scored two goals in her side’s 6-0 win over Palm Beach Atlantic University. Sky Blue FC also notched a 6-0 win over their weekend opponent in James Madison University. Carli Lloyd, Midge Purce, Paige Monaghan, Elizabeth Eddy, and Naho Kawasumi all got on the scoresheet. Down in North Carolina, NC Courage beat UNC 2-1. Usual suspects Lynn Williams and Jess McDonald scored for the Courage. Usual suspect Brianna Pinto scored for UNC. 

NCAA Women’s Soccer Check-In

Speaking of UNC, let’s visit what’s been happening in college soccer ‘round these parts. Since February-ish, teams have been in action and look ahead to an NCAA Championship that will be taking place in May. Qualify or not, no doubt all these teams are just happy to be back out on the field repping their schools. Many schools played this weekend, USC, Stanford, Duke, Virginia, and the list goes on. Check out scores here. 

Nothing Too Surprising Happened in the FA WSL 

Just look what it means ?

? #ManCity | https://t.co/HkTzfLv0HJ pic.twitter.com/OPSEWds3hF

— Man City Women (@ManCityWomen) March 7, 2021

Everton almost eked out a tie against Man City, but then Kiera Walsh said, “Nope!” and scored the game-winner for City in the 81st. Many on Twitter were very upset that Rose Lavelle sat, unused, on the bench for most of the game. Understandable. She’s good at soccer.

Man United, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Brighton were the other winners this weekend. Things look pretty much the same at the top of the table after those results. City 2 points off the pace, Man Utd 4 behind them (remember when they were in first?), and Arsenal 6 behind them (also, oof). 

Polkinghorne, Heyman Have Memorable Weekends

You know I love when I write about Australian soccer; I get to do a stupid accent in my head while I type. Canberra United forward Michelle Heyman equaled Sam Kerr’s W-League record with her 70th goal on Saturday. Crikey! That’s a lot of goals! In other impressive milestone news, Brisbane Roar defender Clare Polkinghorn set the appearance for one club league record with her 150th game for Brisbane. 

Featured Image via @OLReign on Instagram

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