The North Carolina Courage began their inaugural season on the road in a rematch of sorts, taking on the Washington Spirit at Maryland SoccerPlex. The Courage came away with a 1–0 win thanks to a goal by McCall Zerboni. How did the team fare in DC?

The Good

McCall and Debinha

These two ladies are workhorses. McCall was all over the midfield, and definitely set the tone in terms of physicality and pace. Debinha, a new pickup in the offseason, was dangerous in front of goal, and created space for not only herself, but also for Lynn Williams and Jessica McDonald. Both are gonna be a threat later in the season: look out NWSL.

The Goal

The first goal in club history, and it was pretty: a wonderful cross into the box that McCall controls. She uses one touch to set up on her left foot, and slotted it right into the far post. Really was a work of art, and a goal that was long overdue.

Our Attack

An attack of Lynn Williams, Debinha, McCall Zerboni, Jess McDonald, and Sam Mewis will be lethal. Give these ladies a couple games to get *more* familiar with each other, and the goals will start flying. Again, look out NWSL.

Stephanie Labbe

She’s not on the Courage, but she was an absolute bright spot in this game. She will be the reason the Spirit stay in games this season. She stood on her head after her back line let her down time and time again. After blanking Lynn Williams twice and tipping a few of Debinha’ and Jess’ shots over the bar, she definitely deserves some praise.

The Bad

Our Finishing

This game could’ve easily been 4–0. While Labbe stood on her head, there were several balls that should have been in the back of the net, regardless of Labbe. Whether it’s the final pass, or the finish, it’s gotta get better. That will come with time, but boy it would’ve been fun to see in Week 1. The potential is there, though.

The Ugly

The Spirit

Oh boy. It’s gonna be a rough season for them. They can barely get fans in the stands, and the product on the field is not really giving fans a reason to come. Only time will tell if the back line will start to gel more, but right now, they have a problem that needs fixing ASAP.