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The Definitive Angle: NWSL Week 1

PRO media , min read

The Definitive Angle is PRO’s analysis of the week’s Video Review use in NWSL.

Week 1 overview
There were two Video Reviews during Week 1.

KC vs POR: Penalty kick

Outcome: After review, Kansas City #27 [Kayla Sharples] committed a punishable handball offense inside the penalty area.

The final decision was a penalty kick [to Portland Thorns].

Length of review: 3:23

PRO’s opinion: This was a handball offense by Sharples (KC), who blocked a pass from Olivia Moultrie (POR) with her left arm, which was positioned away from her body, and created a barrier for the ball. The referee was correct to award a penalty kick after video review.

SEA vs GFC: Red card (serious foul play)

Outcome: After review, Gotham #22 [Mandy Freeman] committed a serious foul play offense on Seattle #30 [Nérilia Mondésir].

The final decision was a red card for serious foul play.

Length of review: 2:15

PRO’s opinion: Freeman (GFC) lunged into a challenge from behind with her studs exposed and made contact on the Achilles of Mondésir (SEA), causing her ankle to buckle. This endangered the safety of her opponent, and the referee was correct to show a red card for serious foul play after video review.

Please note: These videos do not contain audio. They are a recording of the screen as viewed by the VAR in real-time.