Let's talk about the Denver Summit, the NWSL's newest team, and why they're an absolute blast to watch. I mean, who doesn't love a good sports story with a twist of chaos and unpredictability?
When it comes to expansion teams, we often focus on their performance and results. But here's a different perspective: let's prioritize fun over winning. And trust me, the Denver Summit delivers on that front.
The Early Days: A Rollercoaster Ride
The Summit's inaugural season has been a wild ride so far. They kicked things off with a bang, losing to Bay FC in a match filled with goals and drama. But that's just the beginning. They've taken points from top teams like Orlando Pride and Gotham, only to follow it up with a couple of scoreless draws. It's like they're on an emotional rollercoaster, and I, for one, am loving every minute of it.
The Expansion Derby: Drama at its Finest
The season's first expansion derby against Boston Legacy was a real thriller. The Summit led 2-1, but then came the dramatic comeback. Aissata Traoré's half-volley in the 90th minute and Bianca St-Georges' stoppage-time goal turned the game on its head. It was a heartbreaker for Denver, but a treat for neutral fans like me. The Summit's tendency to squander leads adds an extra layer of excitement to their games.
A Tale of Revenge: Denver vs. Houston Dash
The match against Houston Dash had an extra layer of intrigue. Two of Denver's starters, Yazmeen Ryan and Delanie Sheehan, were former Dash players. The trade announcement just days before the game added fuel to the fire. And boy, did they deliver. Janine Sonis, the Denver captain, scored twice, assisted by Ryan. Sheehan also got on the scoresheet. It was a 4-1 thrashing, and the former Dash players certainly had a point to prove.
The Summit's Strength: Wide Play and Elite Wingers
Denver's main strength lies in their wide players. Ryan, Sonis, Pickett, Oke, and Brazier form an elite group of wingers and fullbacks. They lead the league in goals per 90 minutes, and their wide play is a key reason for that. Melissa Kössler, the German forward, relies on quality service, and she has the luxury of receiving crosses from some of the best in the business.
A Tall Order: The Summit's Height Advantage
One can't help but notice the Summit's height advantage. With an average height of 5'7
