NWSL Challenge Cup: Jane Campbell penalty shootout heroics secures the Houston Dash a semifinal spot

Topics: NWSL Challenge Cup, Houston Dash, Utah Royals, Jane Campbell

Houston Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell’s two penalty shootout saves knocked out hosts Utah Royals after a scoreless draw. The Dash will face the Portland Thorns, who are coming off a win against No. 1 North Carolina

The second NWSL Challenge Cup quarterfinal kicked off with some controversy. Royals’ goalkeeper Abby Smith was forced step off her line to contest a through ball with Dash forward Brianna Visalli.

Smith clearly got to the tackle late and took down Visalli, who had a clear goal-scoring opportunity, inside the box.

hmm pic.twitter.com/0oKbtfO6CC
— Houston Dash (@HoustonDash) July 18, 2020

Unfortunately for Houston, the referee signaled for a free-kick and only booked Smith. VAR is not a feature in this tournament, so the call was not reviewed. Anyways, Smith should have been sent off for denying a goal-scoring opportunity since the challenge was not ruled a penalty.

Houston was relentless with their counter-attacks through the flanks via forwards Nichelle Prince and Visalli. On the 38th minute, Prince had an attempt on goal from outside the area that banged against the far post and back into play.

Big-time chance for Nichelle Prince, but she hits the post! #HOUvUTA | 0-0 | #NWSL pic.twitter.com/o0y4hFqjSA
— The Equalizer (@EqualizerSoccer) July 18, 2020

The game evolved into a more rigid contest in the second half. Players began getting physical during set-pieces including shoving and pushing. This physical battle then translated into open play causing several stops and injuries throughout the game.

This smashmouth affair ended in a scoreless draw that led to the traditional penalty shootout.