Ep 4. Portland Thorns FC vs. FC Kansas City

Portland Thorns FC and FC Kansas City face off in the fourth episode of the National Women's Soccer League's inaugural season. The Thorns, led by their dynamic forward Christine Sinclair, are looking to continue their strong start to the season after picking up seven points in their first three matches. On the other hand, FC Kansas City, led by the U.S. national team's Lauren Cheney, are still searching for their first win of the season.

The game starts off with both teams trying to establish their style of play. Portland dominates possession early on, using their talented midfield to control the pace of the game. Sinclair and fellow forward Alex Morgan make some dangerous runs, but the FC Kansas City defense, anchored by defender Becky Sauerbrunn, stays strong and holds the Thorns at bay.

As the first half progresses, FC Kansas City begin to find their footing. Cheney and fellow midfielder Sinead Farrelly form a strong partnership in the center of the park, helping their team win the ball back and launch counterattacks. However, they struggle to create many clear-cut chances, and the Portland defense, led by Rachel Buehler, does a good job of keeping them at bay.

The game remains scoreless at halftime, but both teams come out firing in the second half. Portland continues to dominate possession, and Sinclair and Morgan come close to breaking the deadlock on several occasions. However, they are unable to find the back of the net, and FC Kansas City continue to stay in the game.

As the clock ticks down, both teams make changes to try and find a winner. Portland bring on midfielder Tobin Heath, who immediately brings some creative flair to their attack. FC Kansas City respond by bringing on striker Renae Cuellar, hoping she can use her pace to trouble the Portland defense.

In the end, it is Portland who come out on top. In the 72nd minute, Sinclair picks up the ball just outside the box and takes on several FC Kansas City defenders. She cuts inside onto her left foot and fires a shot into the top corner of the net, giving her team the lead.

FC Kansas City push forward in search of an equalizer, but the Portland defense holds firm. Goalkeeper Karina LeBlanc makes several crucial saves to preserve the lead, and the Thorns hold on for a hard-fought 1-0 victory.

The win moves Portland up to second place in the NWSL standings, while FC Kansas City remain in seventh place. The Thorns will be looking to build on this result in their next game, while FC Kansas City will be hoping to bounce back and pick up their first win of the season.