Portland Thorns vs. Western New York Flash: How to Watch, Preview, Match Thread [6:00]

The Portland Thorns won the shield and now start their push for their second cup in the NWSL. The Thorns are at home today for the first time in their playoff history, but standing between them and the final are the high scoring Western New York Flash and 2015 Thorns coach Paul Riley.

With the Thorns’ full roster playing and on the same page, and huge contributions coming from all across the pitch, Portland should be confident coming into this one. On the other end of the pitch, the Flash will be confident that their attack will be able to break the Thorns down, having finished off the season with a run of three straight wins, including a 7-1 victory over the Boston Breakers in the final match of the season.

Match Preview

“Both sides will look to league-leading offensive threats to lead them to the championship match on Oct. 9. Portland midfielder Tobin Heath set an NWSL record in the regular season with 10 assists, while Flash forward Lynn Williams scored more goals than anyone else. The match also marks the first meeting between the two sides in the playoffs since Portland won the 2013 NWSL title 2-0.”

Match Information

Watch it on: FOX Sports 1

Kickoff: 2:00 p.m. PT at Providence Park in Portland, OR

Portland Thorns: 12W-5T-3L, 1st place in the NWSL

Western New York Flash: 12W-3T-5L