Michelle Alozie sent off in Houston Dash narrow defeat

Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie was sent off during Houston Dash’s 1-0 loss to San Diego Wave on Monday morning.

In the 33rd minute, Alozie received her marching orders after denying a goal-scoring opportunity. She had brought down Rachel Hill who had pounced on a lose ball that Alozie failed to control.

Jaedyn Shaw scored the only goal of the match and her fifth goal of the season. The Victor was recorded in front of close to 25,000 home fans at Snapdragon Stadium.

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The San Diego Waves are now first in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Only four points separate the Wave and the sixth-place Washington Spirit in the final playoff spot, with four matches remaining in the regular season.

With the extra player advantage, the San Diego Wave were able to trouble the Dash expressly in the second half. Alex Morgan volleyed a shot off the crossbar in the 55th minute while Shaw’s header went wide.

The Houston Dash finally surrendered, Shaw breaking through after receiving a pass from Christen Westphal. Shaw took a touch around goalkeeper Jane Campbell before netting the ball into the goal in the 57th minute.

Even Alozie’s red card, Houston Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell made nine saves to keep the scoreline respectable.