Seattle Reign secure last playoff berth with late goal against Orlando
Jordyn Bugg scored the winner in the 68th minute, ensuring the Reign will face the top-seeded Gotham FC on November 8.
By Bianca Shevchenko ·
Seattle Reign fans can now plan for the postseason after their team secured the final playoff spot with a narrow win. The 1-0 victory over the Orlando Pride on Sunday guarantees the Reign a place in the NWSL bracket.
The deciding moment came in the 68th minute. Jordyn Bugg found herself in position after a corner kick deflected off Mia Fishel. She took control of the ball and finished past goalkeeper Cosette Morché to seal the result.
The win places the Reign in the opening round match against NY/NJ Gotham FC. Gotham holds the number one seed and the Shield title. The two teams will meet on Sunday, November 8, at 9:30 AM PT at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, N.J.
The match also marked a career milestone for Reign captain Jess Fishlock. This was her final regular season game before retirement. She leaves as the franchise leader in regular-season goals with 52 and assists with 31. She also ranks second in all-time appearances with 232 and starts with 212.
The Reign now wait one week for their first playoff test. They face the top of the league in a single-elimination format. The matchup sets a clear contrast between the newly qualified eighth seed and the dominant first seed.
Source: KZJO
