Houston Dash goalkeeper Jane Campbell recorded five saves and her first clean sheet during a 0-0 draw with the Utah Royals Friday night.
The Dash (0-0-2, 2 points) had several promising scoring opportunities, including a Kimberly Keever shot off a cross from Linda Motlhalo during first half stoppage time that was just off target.
The Royals (0-0-2, 2 points) were the stronger side in the second half.
Utah goalkeeper Abby Smith seemed to have little trouble earning the shutout. It was the first clean sheet in franchise history and the fourth of Smith’s NWSL career.
Although Utah is an expansion side, the core of the roster came FC Kansas City and has responded well to new coach Laura Harvey.
Houston, meanwhile, features a revamped lineup that is still getting used to each other.
“We’re still trying to gel together as a collective whole in the back. We’re starting to figure things out which is good and promising for the season ahead,” Campbell told the Houston Chronicle. “Especially in the second half we kind of just lost it and Utah took full advantage and we’re thankful that they didn’t put one away on us.”
Both teams will observe an international break before facing Chicago, with the Royals playing their home opener at Rio Tinto Stadium against the Red Stars on April 14 and the Dash facing the Red Stars on the road on April 18.