Dallas Trinity FC concluded their last road game of the fall season with a closely contested 2-1 loss to Fort Lauderdale United FC. The game, part of Match Week 5, had been rescheduled from its original September 29 date due to construction delays at Beyond Bancard Field, ultimately taking place on December 1.
The defeat marks Dallas's second loss of the season, keeping them at #3 on the league table. Despite the setback, the team remains a formidable offensive force, having scored 18 goals so far. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the match, player highlights, and what lies ahead for Dallas Trinity FC.
Fort Lauderdale United wasted no time taking control of the game, scoring within the second minute through a stunning goal. This early strike rattled Dallas, as Coach Pauline MacDonald acknowledged.
She mentioned that conceding early, particularly due to a self-inflicted error, had a psychological impact on the team, and that they struggled to regain their confidence in the first half. According to MacDonald, Fort Lauderdale was arguably the better team, creating more chances.
Defensive lapses and turnovers in the backline left Dallas vulnerable. However, goalkeeper Madison White delivered an outstanding performance, making crucial saves that kept the deficit manageable.
Dallas is still adapting to Coach MacDonald’s 3-5-2 formation, which emphasizes midfield dominance and fluid attacking play. The system showed promise but also revealed vulnerabilities, particularly in defense.
Despite struggling for large parts of the first half, Dallas nearly equalized late in the period. Rachel Pace’s long throw-in set up a brilliant opportunity for Chioma Ubogagu, but Fort Lauderdale goalkeeper Makeena Gottshalk denied the effort with a decisive save.
The halftime break proved pivotal for Dallas Trinity FC, as they came out with renewed energy and determination. The introduction of Hannah Davison added stability to the backline, allowing Dallas to press higher up the field.
Substitute Allie Thornton made an immediate impact after coming on in the 60th minute. Just eight minutes later, she scored the equalizer, finishing a well-placed pass to bring Dallas back into the game at 1-1.
Thornton explained that the key to her success as a striker was the repetition she got in training, adding that although it’s her responsibility to score, her teammates made it easier by providing her with good passes in front of goal.
With momentum on their side, Dallas pushed hard for a second goal, creating several chances. However, it was Fort Lauderdale’s Addie McCain, the league’s top scorer, who turned the tide.
In the 80th minute, McCain capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot home the game-winner, putting Fort Lauderdale ahead 2-1. Despite late efforts from Dallas, including a few dangerous set pieces, they couldn’t find another equalizer.
Coach MacDonald was candid about the team’s performance, emphasizing the need for smarter decision-making and improved game management.
She noted that the team needed to learn when to avoid overplaying and stressed the importance of possessing the ball with intensity and in the right areas of the field. She acknowledged that the loss hurt but emphasized that the team would get back to work on the training field.
Despite the loss, Dallas remains in a strong position on the league table. They hold the #3 spot and boast the league’s best offensive record with 18 goals scored. This speaks to the team’s attacking prowess and potential for future success.
The team’s performance against Fort Lauderdale highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in defensive coordination and adaptability under pressure.
Dallas Trinity FC now turns its focus to two crucial home games at the historic Cotton Bowl:
Both matches will be broadcast live on Peacock, giving fans a chance to cheer on their team as they aim to secure a top-three finish in the league.
The 2024 season has been a period of growth for Dallas Trinity FC. Under Coach Pauline MacDonald’s leadership, the team is learning to adapt to a new tactical system while maintaining its status as an offensive powerhouse.
The loss to Fort Lauderdale United is a reminder of the challenges ahead, but it also underscores the team’s resilience and potential. With home-field advantage in their final two games, Dallas has a chance to end the season on a high note and build momentum for the future.
Fans are encouraged to rally behind the team, either in person at the Cotton Bowl or through live broadcasts. The remaining games promise to deliver exciting football as Dallas Trinity FC continues to develop its identity and strive for success.