Portland Thorns fall 2-0 in the Semifinals

The Portland Thorns travelled to Kansas City for the first of two semifinals this weekend. Last year Portland also traveled to FCKC and they came away with a thrilling overtime victory but this time it was not to be.

The first half was relatively quiet with FCKC creating most of the chances and forcing Nadine Angerer into three saves. Portland on the other hand did not force any saves and their best chance bounced off the near post and out of danger. The 100 plus degree heat had an effect on both teams and forced a water break in both halves.

The second half was much like the first half with FCKC creating the shots and Portland not able to break down the backline of FCKC. It was only a matter of time before FCKC found the back of the net and it came in the 62nd minute. Lauren Holliday played Amy Rodriguez behind the defense and she easily beat Nadine Angerer for the opening goal of the game. Portland did try and up the energy after conceding the goal and Veronica Boquette did her best to carry the team on her shoulders but just like the first half Portland was unable to force any saves or create any shots on goal.

The dagger was inserted in the in the 87th minute when Portland failed to time the offside trap right and this left Holliday free in the box. Her goal sealed the game for the FCKC. Portland would try to get a goal back but the heat and the lack of fresher legs killed off Portland's chances.