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Houston Dash vs Sky Blue FC Match Recap: Sky Blue FC goalkeeper Caroline Stanley denies Houston their second victory of 2016

Sky Blue FC goalkeeper Caroline Stanley dominated the match with seven saves to deny Houston their second victory of the season.

By danielsamueljr
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Dash tied Sky Blue FC 0-0 in front of 5,081 supporters at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston TX.

Sky Blue FC goalkeeper Caroline Stanley led the match with a spectacular seven save performance to blank the Dash. Stanley's dominant performance in large part contributed to Houston's first draw of the season. Aside from being unable to find the back of the net, the Dash were also unable to launch a consistent attack against Sky Blue FC until the final third of the match.

Houston had a miraculous opportunity to put home the game-winning-goal in the final minute of regulation. After a scramble in front of goal, Pollana placed a shot past Stanley but Sky Blue forward Kyah Simon cleared the ball just off the goal line to preserve the draw.

Arguably, Stanley's best save of the night came in the 70' minute on Rachel Daly. The Sky Blue keeper dove down to her left to deflect Daly's tremendous volley past the post. Daly led Houston's offensive attack with six shots. The English international's play in the absence of Carli Lloyd and her overall play this season has helped to more than justify her top-ten selection in the 2016 NWSL College Draft.

In the 87' minute, Houston's newest addition Denise O'Sullivan had another great chance to break the deadlock. The Irish international received a backheel pass at the edge of the box from Daly and launched a strike on goal. However, Stanley found herself again in the right position to make a stop. O'Sullivan made her Dash debut coming in for Caity Heap as a second-half substitute.

After giving up three goals to the Pride last week, Houston's defense rebounded well, holding Sky Blue FC to a total of six shots. The Dash also received a moral victory in one category. Dash defender Cari Roccaro is poised to make her professional debut in the coming weeks. The 21-year-old was selected fifth overall in the 2016 Draft and will be looked upon to play a critical role in Houston's defense.

Houston will return to action against FC Kansas City on May 7., the first leg of a two-game road trip.

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