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Less Snow, More Soccer: Chicago Red Stars vs Sky Blue, NWSL Week 4.5 game preview

Can Chicago make it 3 wins in a row?

Nikita Taparia

The Chicago Red Stars play their 3rd game in 8 days as they host Sky Blue FC this Saturday at Toyota Park. Chicago is coming off a home win that just took place on Wednesday where they beat the Houston Dash 3-0 on a frigid night.

The Red Stars feared no element, as they set the tempo early with Sarah Gorden ultimately willing (aka scamming) an own goal into existence from Houston. Another goal from Lauren Kaskie wold put Chicago up 2-0 at the half. After a trying a couple shots from distance, Huerta got on the scoreline with a fierce header after a brilliant service from Danielle Colaprico.

Chicago will face a quick turn around as Sky Blue FC look for their first points of the 2018 season.

Where We Last Saw Them

A whole lot has changed since Chicago faced New Jersey. Formerly of Sky Blue FC, Sam Kerr and Nikki Stanton are now part of the Chicago Red Stars. While Jen Hoy, once a staple on the Red Stars roster, is now a part of Sky Blue FC.

The two teams played each other last July and Sam Kerr scammed Chicago out of a victory by scoring an equalizer in the 90th minute - fitting she is a Red Star this season.

Starting Lineup We’d Like To See

While everyone loves a good new team vs former team storyline, Sam Kerr is still out on international team duty (she’ll be back soon). The Red Stars have been improving their form week to week with some top players out in Ertz (knee), Short (d45), and DiBernardo (d45). Rosie White (d45) and Steph McCaffrey (illness) are out a well. So. Multi-game week? Injured players? Potential for more Scams? We’re ready.

Keys To The Match

Keep focus but stay hungry: The Red Stars came into the season with several of their players out with injury, illness, or national team duty. The current active roster has managed to pick themselves up and settle into second place on the NWSL table with 7 points over 4 matches. It has been impressive to witness, but will the team string together consistent performances on the pitch.

Can’t get Scammed if you’re already Scamming: An argument can be made that it is Chicago’s game to lose, as Sky Blue FC is searching for their first points of the season after two losses against Seattle and North Carolina. They will will be eager to so do a bit of spoiling themselves as the Red Stars look to get their 3rd win in a row.

Players To Watch

Sky Blue FC - Carli Lloyd is the name all eyes will be on, but look for Savannah McCaskill to have an active game for New Jersey. Don’t forget Shae Groom who always has fantastic games against Chicago in Toyota Park, and Katie Johnson who scored a game winner for Seattle last season in stoppage time.

Chicago Red Stars - Danielle Colaprico is literally doing it all for the Red Stars right now. Building up plays, or breaking them up, while scoring goals and serving them up for her teammates - look for the Jersey girl to make an impact in this match for Chicago. Make sure and take time to admire Goal Keeper Alyssa Naeher & Co, who have put together back to back shut outs.

How To Watch

Kick off: Saturday, April 21, at 7:00 pm CT at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, IL.

Stream: go90, NWSLSoccer.com, NWSL app (jnternational)

Final Thoughts

Will the Red Stars extend their winning streak? Who do you think will get the start? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!