The Lion's Pitch

The NC Courage lose 2-3 to Houston Dash. Katie is joined by guest Victoria Klum this week while Trevor remains out on paternity leave. Plus a great conversation with forward Evelyn Ijeh, who just recorded her third straight game with a goal.You can find Victoria at Victoria Klum Media across socials and on Bluesky at @vicster.netIn This EpisodeWhat We Learned This Week: NC Courage vs. Houston DashThe Courage lost Natalie Jacobs to a concussion early in the match, and came out flat off the high of last week's comeback win. We break down what losing Jacobs means for the back line and why the team's resilience and leadership continue to stand out, even in a loss. Plus, the growing chemistry in a midfield trio that's quickly become one of the best units on the roster.Interview: Evelyn IjehWe sit down with forward Evelyn Ijeh to talk about her move from AC Milan, including the adjustment to a new city, league, and culture. We discuss her fast-growing partnership with Ashley Sanchez and Ally Schlegel up top and what fans should know about her game. Then we get to know her a little better off the pitch, including her love of journaling and drawing as a creative outlet away from soccer.Standout StatsRyan Williams tied Kaleigh Kurtz for second all-time in Courage appearances with 132. Ashley Sanchez crossed 10,000 career NWSL minutes, with more of those minutes now coming as a Courage player than anywhere else. With Ijeh's 10th goal of the season, she and Sanchez became just the third pair of teammates in club history to both reach double-digit goals in a single season, joining Jessica McDonald and Lynn Biyendolo (née Williams) in 2016 and Debinha and Diana Ordóñez in 2022. We dig into what the numbers say about a team that's finally spreading the goals around.Looking Ahead: Boston LegacyCasey Murphy and Bianca St-Georges return to Cary for the first time since leaving in the offseason. We break down Boston's unconventional back three and where the Courage can find their opportunities in the middle of the park.Looking Ahead: Angel City FCAngel City comes to WakeMed for Pride Night with the return of Sydney Leroux and a back line that's proven difficult to break down all season. We break down where the Courage might be able to create chaos in the box and why staying disciplined defensively will be as important as scoring.Courage NewsCameron Brooks is nominated for the Lauren Holiday Impact Award for her partnership with the Bair Foundation, supporting foster care and family services. Voting is open now.Around the LeagueSydney Leroux returns to Angel City after stepping away for a mental health break. Chicago fires their head coach and brings back Lorne Donaldson in an executive role.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

The NC Courage go 3-0-0 in a three-game week, beating Denver 2-0 on the road and pulling off a thrilling 4-3 comeback win at Washington with a stoppage-time Natalie Jacobs winner. Katie is joined by Aaron once again while Trevor is out on paternity leave, and they break down a team that finally seems to have found its identity.This week we're also joined by Aaron Rogoff. You can find him on Bluesky at @aaronrogoff.bluesky.socialIn This EpisodeWhat We Learned This Week: NC Courage vs. Denver Summit FC & Washington SpiritSix goals across two matches with a team that's finally clicking. The high press has been ferocious, forcing turnovers from both Denver and Washington and building at least four of the six goals from the chaos it created. The midfield trio of Riley Jackson, Shinomi Koyama, and Erica Meg Parkinson continues to grow into their roles, Natalie Jacobs' return has stabilized the back line and brought real leadership, and the fluidity across the whole team completes the team. We break down every goal, including Katie and Aaron's favorites, and dig into lingering concerns about set-piece defending and second-half substitution patterns.Standout StatsThe Courage became just the second team in NWSL history to overcome a multi-goal deficit late and still win, storming back from down 3-2 to beat Washington. Shinomi Koyama's assist against Washington was her fifth of the season, with Aaron predicting she reaches double digits by year's end. That and more covered in this episode.Looking Ahead: Houston DashThe Courage get eight days of rest before a Sunday match against Houston. We break down Houston's evolving attack, the Kiki Van Zanten and Kat Rader threat up top, and why continuing to build through midfield rather than relying purely on the press will be the next step in this team's evolution.Courage NewsEvelyn Ijeh named to the NWSL Team of the Month for July. Lauren Thompson and Erica Meg Parkinson were called up to England's U-20 pre-camp and have since withdrawn, likely a sign their roster spots for the actual World Cup squad are already secured. Every Courage home match in July drew at least 7,000 fans, a club first for the summer months.Around the LeagueMeredith Speck signs with Gotham FC after Emily Sonnett's season-ending injury, reuniting her with Denise O'Sullivan. Jenna Nighswonger officially joins Bay FC, marking her return to the NWSL after a difficult spell at Arsenal.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

The NC Courage put on a 5-0 masterclass against Orlando Pride, with Evelyn Ijeh's hat trick and a Parkinson-Thompson connection that had everyone buzzing. Trevor is joined by guest co-host Aaron this week.A note from Trevor: He'll be out for the next few weeks on paternity leave. Katie will be back next week alongside Aaron. The newsletter will pause until mid-September, but the podcast will keep coming.This week we're also joined by Aaron Rogoff. You can find him on Bluesky at @aaronrogoff.bluesky.socialIn This EpisodeWhat We Learned This Week: NC Courage vs. Orlando PrideFive goals and a performance that finally showed what this team can do. The new midfield trio of Riley Jackson, Shinomi Koyama, and Erica Meg Parkinson caused chaos for Orlando with their interchangeable roles and high work rate. Lauryn Thompson started and became the youngest regular-season goal scorer in club history. Natalie Jacobs returned to the back line and was outstanding. And the Courage created their own luck all night long. We break down all five goals and what this performance tells us about where this team is heading.Standout StatsEvelyn Ijeh scored her hat trick in just her 15th regular season appearance, with only one player in the last decade reaching the milestone faster. The Courage had nine shots on target to Orlando's two. And fifteen interceptions to Orlando's six, with Natalie Jacobs accounting for five of them on her own. We dig into what the numbers say about a performance that was as dominant as the scoreline suggests.Looking Ahead: Washington SpiritWashington has 11 wins in their last 14 matches and is one point behind Gotham at the top of the table. Trevor and Aaron break down Sandy MacIver's outstanding season in goal, the Tara Rudd and Esme Morgan center back pairing, and why this match will be a very different challenge from the 5-0 performance against Orlando. Aaron shares what he wants most out of this match (it's not just a win).Courage NewsVilde Bøe Risa made her debut with a cameo against Orlando. The Courage partnered with Paragon Theatres for a Ted Lasso Season 4 premiere watch party.Around the LeagueThe NWSL cuts ties with Victory Plus, with all affected matches moving to NWSL+. Jenna Niswonger trades to Bay FC. June Endo tears her ACL, and Emily Sonnett ruptures her patellar tendon, devastating news with the World Cup on the horizon. And FIFA's push to sell World Cup rights to private investors gets global pushback.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

The NC Courage lose 1-4 to Utah Royals in, ironically, one of our strongest matches of the season. This game featured three goals conceded from corners, a brilliant press from the Courage, Erica Meg Parkinson's first start, and Natalie Jacobs back on the pitch. Trevor and Katie break it all down before previewing a big week with matches against Orlando and Denver. Plus some exciting signing news.In This EpisodeLooking Back: NC Courage vs Utah RoaylsThree goals from corners in one match, which is about as statistically likely as it sounds. But there was plenty to feel good about too. Erica Meg Parkinson impressed in her first NWSL start, the press was the best we've seen all season, Evelyn Ijeh got in Mandy McGlynn's head, and Natalie Jacobs made a welcome return to the pitch. We break down what went wrong on set pieces, what went right everywhere else, and why this might be a match that kick-starts something.Looking Ahead: Orlando Pride & Denver Summit FCTwo matches in one week — Orlando at home on Friday, then a road trip to Denver on Wednesday. We break down what to expect without Barbara Banda, whether Parkinson can out-Marta Marta, and why Denver's clean style of play might actually suit the Courage. Can we take home six points in one week?Courage NewsParkinson talks about reuniting with Lauren Thompson on the pitch for the first time in two years, something they've dreamed about since their England youth days. The Courage sign Norwegian international Vilde Bøe Risa from Atletico Madrid, who has 95 caps for Norway and is available as early as Friday. Around the LeagueEsther González departs Gotham. ESPN launches a weekly Women's Sports Sunday segment. WAFCON is underway with 11 NWSL players competing. And the golden boot race heats up with Banda and Esther both away from their clubs.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

The NC Courage face back-to-back losses with a 3-0 loss to Bay FC, repeating some familiar and frustrating patterns. Trevor and Katie break down what went wrong and look ahead to a tough home match against the Utah Royals.In This EpisodeLooking Back: NC Courage vs Bay FCTwo goals in three minutes, the same transition defending problems we've seen before, and a 3-0 loss. We break down the back line playing too high, the Erica Meg Parkinson debut that gave us something to feel good about, and what needs to change before Utah comes to town.Standout StatsEach team took 14 shots, with 10 of the Courage's coming from inside the box — so the chances were there. We dig into what Riley Jackson's eight of nine duels won tells us and why Bay's keeper Jordan Silkowitz was the difference maker.Looking Ahead: Utah RoyalsUtah has been one of the biggest surprises of the season, fighting for a top-five spot with distributed scoring across the roster and a midfield built to win possession battles. We break down the former Courage midfield Narumi Miura and Ana Tejada pairing, what Cloé Lacasse brings up front, and why Ashley Sanchez might be able to wreak some havoc down their right side.Courage NewsNatalie Jacobs is still out, raising questions about center back depth. The club released a welcome video for Erica Meg Parkinson. And Trevor shares some exciting personal news.Around the LeagueGotham FC pulls off a wild comeback against Seattle, scoring twice in stoppage time. Former Courage captain Denise O'Sullivan makes her debut in a Gotham kit. Lindsay Heaps returns to the league and starts for Denver.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

The NC Courage fall 2-0 to the Washington Spirit in their biggest test of the season so far, but there were plenty of signs of growth in the second half. Trevor and Katie break down the match, grade the Courage's season so far, and look ahead to a rematch at Bay FC.In This EpisodeLooking Back: NC Courage vs Washington SpiritA tough 2-0 loss at home, but not without its moments. The Courage were outplayed in the first half (as has become the trend of the season) but came back fighting in the second, creating real chances and nearly pulling one back, including an Ashley Sanchez free kick that was controversially ruled out by VAR for an obscure violation. We break down the formation, subs, and why Mak Lind still believes this team can compete with the best.Midseason Report CardWith more than a third of the season behind us, Trevor, Katie, and producer Mary grade the Courage by position. Listen to see how we think the team is doing. We break down what's working, what still needs fixing, and whether this team can beat the top of the table consistently in the second half of the season.Looking Ahead: Bay FCBay has stumbled lately but added some real pieces during the transfer window. We discuss Kennedy Fuller, the midfield battle to watch, and why this feels like a must-respond match after last week's loss. Plus, do we see Erica Parkinson's NWSL debut?Courage NewsCrystal Dunn's Ring of Honor ceremony was a highlight of the weekend. Overall, a quiet week for the Courage.Around the LeagueThe USWNT announces two October friendlies against defending World Cup champions Spain. Ashley Sanchez keeps making the case for the national team; is Emma Hayes paying attention? In heartbreaking news, Jeff Kassouf reports former Courage captain Denise O'Sullivan is likely heading to Gotham on loan from Liverpool.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

The NC Courage beat Seattle Reign 3-1 on July 4th, making it four wins in a row, the first four-game winning streak since 2023. Trevor and Katie break down the win and catch up on a busy month of roster news.This week we also welcome Courage Chief Business Officer Ralph Vuono to the podcast for a conversation about fan engagement, theme nights, attendance growth, and the club's vision for the future.In This EpisodeCourage NewsManaka Matsukubo is traded to Chelsea in the Women's Super League. Erica Parkinson is incoming but won't be available until around July 14th, check out Bill Nottingham's in-depth look at her at https://splat.cc/posts/erica-meg/. Shinomi Koyama's contract is extended. Natalie Jacobs is progressing well in her recovery. Cortnee Vine parts ways with the club. And the Carolina Hurricanes win the Stanley Cup.Looking Back: NC Courage vs Seattle ReignFour wins in a row and life after Manaka. The Courage came out sluggish in the heat but found their footing in the second half to put up a convincing 3-1 scoreline. We break down the midfield adjustments, Dani Weatherholt's quietly excellent defensive performance, and why the depth of this roster is starting to feel like a real competitive advantage.Looking Ahead: Washington SpiritWashington is one of the most formidable teams in the league with Trinity Rodman and Lacey Santos leading a dangerous forward line. We break down what makes them so hard to contain, why this match feels like the biggest test of the Courage's season so far, and what Crystal Dunn's Ring of Honor night means for the atmosphere at WakeMed.Interview: Ralph Vuono, Chief Business OfficerRalph sits down with Trevor and Katie to talk about how he ended up at the Courage. Spoiler: he thought the team was based in Charlotte. He shares his bold vision for where women's soccer is headed.Around the LeagueEmma Sears reportedly signals she is ready to leave Racing Louisville and multiple teams have expressed interest. Sam Kerr signs with Gotham. Ally Sentnor moves to Angel City. Plus a busy transfer window as players move between the NWSL and WSL.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell

The NC Courage close out the first half of the season with a nervy 2-1 win at Angel City, making it three wins in a row for the first time in season since 2024. Trevor and Katie break down two beautiful team goals, celebrate some big international call-ups, and look way ahead to Seattle after the June break.In This EpisodeLooking Back: NC Courage vs Angel City FCTwo beautiful goals from Evelyn Ijeh and Manaka Matsukubo, both built on brilliant work from Ashley Sanchez, who arguably deserved the player of the match award herself. We break down Angel City's right-side strategy, Dani Weatherholt's quietly outstanding defensive performance, and Kailen Sheridan's late heroics that sealed the three points.Standout StatsAngel City ended the match with 37 touches in the box compared to the Courage's 17, and took 59% possession in the second half. We dig into what those numbers mean.Looking Ahead: Seattle ReignAfter a four-week break the Courage return home to face Seattle on July 4th. Seattle is hard to pin down because of a stingy defense and inconsistent front line. We break down what to expect and why this match will be one of the best tests of the Courage's progress this season.Courage NewsRiley Jackson, Evelyn Ijeh, Kailen Sheridan, Manaka Matsukubo and Carly Wickenheiser are called up to their respective senior national teams. Lauren Thompson is called up to the England U-20s. Sydney Schmidt tore her ACL in training and is placed on the SEI list. Plus, catch Cameron Brooks on the Women's Soccer Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/the-womens-soccer-podcast/2852306/Around the LeagueNo team is secure at the top of the table with the Courage just seven points behind the number one spot with a game (or in some instances, two) in hand. Anything can still happen in the second half of the season.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell