Thorns win thriller over Orlando in front of 19,000 home fans

The Portland Thorns did their part to keep the post-World Cup wave of women’s soccer rolling.

Tyler Lussi’s headed goal from Meghan Klingenberg’s corner kick in the fourth minute of stoppage time gave Portland a 4-3 win over Orlando on Sunday.

Lussi’s goal sent just under 19,000 fans at Providence Park into a frenzy in a match televised nationally.

“Having ESPN is truly special,” Lussi said. “We need that for the women’s game. We need that. The U.S. team just won the World Cup and they’re incredible. More people should watch, not only women’s soccer, but women’s sports in general.”

Haley Raso gave Portland the lead after just three minutes. The Thorns doubled their advantage in the 58rd minute on Midge Purce’s goal.

Brazilian star Marta cut Portland’s lead to 2-1 in the 61st minute.

Christine Sinclair, who became just the fourth National Women’s Soccer League player to pass 10,000 minutes during the match, put Portland ahead 3-1 in the 66th minute.

But Orlando rallied, scoring on an own goal in the 68th minute then tying the match on Erin Greening’s goal in the 90th minute.