Reign looking to break five-game losing streak in home finale

by · The Seattle Times

The Reign will try to break a five-game losing streak with their home season finale against Houston on Friday. The Dash defeated the Reign 1-0 in Texas last month.

Both teams are eliminated from playoff contention, but Houston defeated San Diego on Sunday.

Here’s a look at the match:

Reign (5-14-5) vs Houston (5-14-5)

Time/place: 7 p.m. Friday at Lumen Field in Seattle.

TV: Prime Video

Radio: N/A

Series history: Seattle leads the all-time series 17-5-4 since 2014.

Storylines

Sticking around

The Reign continue to keep an eye on the future while balancing a losing season. The latest example is extending the contract of defender Shae Holmes. The former University of Washington standout signed a deal through the 2026 season. Holmes was originally acquired with the 19th overall pick in the 2023 draft.

“It just felt right,” said Holmes, who could’ve tested the free-agent market this offseason. The left-footer started 14 of her 23 appearances the past two seasons, shifting between center back and full back.

Done for the season?

Jess Fishlock is unlikely to play in the Reign’s final two matches, according to coach Laura Harvey. The midfielder subbed off in the 17th minute of a win against Angel City FC in September due to a leg injury. She returned to training this week, but her return to the field will likely be for the Welsh national team.

Fishlock was called up along with Reign midfielder Angharad James-Turner. Wales will play a two-legged semifinal playoff against Slovakia on Oct. 25 and Oct. 29. The Reign play their season finale on the road Nov. 2 against the NWSL Shield-winning Orlando Pride.

Harvey added that midfielders Quinn (head) and Olivia Van der Jagt (excused absence) are also likely done for the season. Quinn last played in September while Van der Jagt has been out since the Olympic break.

Quotable

“It’s pride at this point,” said Holmes, whose team didn’t qualify for the playoffs for the first time since 2017. “Also, this is the time that we get to prepare for next season. That sucks to say, but it’s a moment where we get to say hey, [these are] the cards we’ve been dealt and we’re not going to waste it, and we’re going to take it as an opportunity to still continue to grow, still continue to show what this team can do. It’s fan appreciation night, so we’re excited to play for them.”