Allie Long scored on an assist by Jessica McDonald and the Portland Thorns FC began defense of their National Women’s Soccer League title with a 1-0 victory over the expansion Houston Dash on Saturday at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston.
The only goal of the match came in the 24th minute.
Portland had a narrow edge in shots 12-10. Long had five of those shots, four on goal.
Nadine Angerer made two saves in goal for the Thorns.
Next for the Thorns is a trip to New Jersey for a match with Sky Blue FC at 4 p.m. Saturday. The home opener for the Thorns is April 26 vs. FC Kansas City.
