Barbra Banda scored a goal and assisted one to send Orlando Pride to the final of the National Women’s Soccer League play-off in a 3 – 2 win over rivals Kansas City.
In a highly entertaining game at the Inter and Co. Stadium, City took the lead in the 33rd minute after Brazilian midfielder Debinha eluded defenders to shoot from close range. The lead did not last longer as Pride drew level four minutes before the break.
Banda’s team found the leveler through Haley McCutcheon who connected an Ally Watt drive.
The 24-year-old’s moment came in the 51st minute when she sent home a well taken shot, connecting a Kylie Strom pass to hand her side the lead.
She then turned provider eight minutes from time when she teed the ball to Marta who went on a solo run eliminating defenders and the keeper before scoring Pride’s third of the night.
“It’s amazing and I think we deserve it as a team. We really worked so hard for it. Our mind starting from training, we’ve been looking to go to the finals. (inaudible) I’m so excited and happy about it,” Banda said after the game.
She added: “It has been an amazing season for me. Winning the Shield with the team and going to the finals in the playoffs. I’ve come at a good time. I’ve contributed to the team so I’m happy for that and hoping to continue next season.”
“It’s not easy, but the determination of the team, being hard working and the relationship that we have as a team has really taken us through all this. We’ve been committed and we always want to win. I think it’s good when the team is in good shape, good condition and have the spirit of winning. At the end of the day, these are the results that we are getting.”
City pulled one back in added time but it was a case of too little too late.
Banda’s team will now have a date against Washington Spirit in the NWSL Playoffs Final on Saturday as she aims to win what will only be her second club trophy in her career.
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