Portland Thorns play Seattle to 0-0 draw

Behind a solid defensive performance, Portland Thorns FC recorded their third shutout of the season and extended their unbeaten streak to seven matches in a scoreless draw against Cascadia-rival Seattle Reign FC in front of 18,114 fans on Sunday afternoon at Providence Park.

Portland (3-0-4) is the only unbeaten team in the National Women’s Soccer League through the first seven games.

“It was a great performance all around,” Portland coach Mark Parsons said. “Players were committed to a strategy and we had a week to put that together and implement and I think they did that really well.”

Goalkeeper Michelle Betos made her third start of the season in the match, earning the shutout while recording four saves.

Portland’s backline limited Seattle’s chances, allowing just four shots on goal, marking the third consecutive match in which it has held an opponent to less than five shots on goal.

“I know that we only got one point, but it feels like three, and I think things like this are going to get us to where we want to go, and ultimately win a championship.” Betos said. “This is going to be a huge point down the road, and I’m really proud of the team.”

Portland was without goalkeeper Adrianna Franch, defenders Emily Sonnett and Meghan Klingenberg and midfielders Tobin Heath, Lindsey Horan and Allie Long — all away with the U.S. Women’s National Team on international duty.