On This Day in Reign History: Seattle Reign FC Played Its First NWSL Match

On April 14, 2013, Seattle Reign FC traveled to Chicago to play in the club’s first-ever NWSL match. At Benedictine Sports Complex in Lisle, Illinois, the Red Stars and Reign came together for a historic meeting in front of 1,255 fans. 

The Reign’s Starting XI featured two familiar faces for 2024 Reign fans, with Lauren Barnes and Jess Fishlock slotted into their respective roles in the Reign’s backline and midfield. 

Seattle started their inaugural campaign on the front foot, applying high pressure to Chicago, forcing a goal within the first ten minutes of the match. Forward Liz Bogus played a low cross into the box, connecting with midfielder Christine Nairn to score the first NWSL goal in club history 

Chicago managed to pull a goal back and bring the game level less than 10 minutes later, taking advantage of a loose pass in the Reign’s own half. Midfielder Zakiya Bywaters collected the clearance and played the ball back into the box, where midfielder Ella Masar flicked the ball to Lori Chalupny to volley it into the back of the net. 

The match highlighted the Reign’s strong defensive work, in addition to the grit and determination they still carry today, as the team battled against 14 Chicago shots to see the match out 1-1 and pick up a point on the road in the club’s first-ever NWSL match.