Thorns vs Red Stars: Previews, how to watch, match thread [7:30]

The Thorns face the Red Stars for the third time this season at Providence Park, their first game at home in almost a month. Portland comes into the game after a dominant 2-0 win over Orlando last weekend, while Chicago is on short rest after a scoreless draw against Seattle Wednesday.

Previews

Storylines: “[Sam] Kerr didn’t have her best game Wednesday, but she’s the kind of transcendent talent who often seems to be able to score at will, and she should be Portland’s biggest worry going into this game. She’s currently tied with Lynn Williams for second place in the golden boot race, with 10 goals—in 15 games. One can never overlook the possibility that Kerr will figure out how to score when it’s called for, especially given her past form in Portland.”

Red Smoke Radio also previewed the match with guest Sandra Herrera of Hot Time in Old Town.

How to Watch

How to watch: ESPNews

Where: Providence Park, Portland, OR

When: Saturday, August 18 at 7:30 pm PT

Portland Thorns: 9-6-5, third in the NWSL, 2-0 win at Orlando Pride

Chicago Red Stars: 7-4-9, fifth in the NWSL, 0-0 draw at Seattle Reign