Episode Details

The NC Courage fall 1-0 to Orlando Pride in a fairly evenly matched game. Trevor and Katie break down a strong defensive performance despite the injuries in the back before looking ahead to a home match against the Chicago Stars with special guest Lesley Ryder from Gal Pal Sports.

This week, we're joined by Lesley Ryder, independent journalist and co-founder of Gal Pal Sports. Follow Lesley on Bluesky at @lesleyryder.bsky.social and Gal Pal Sports at @galpalsports.bsky.social.

In This Episode

Looking Back: NC Courage vs Orlando Pride

Kailen Sheridan was outstanding, Natalia Staude had her best match in a Courage jersey so far, and Uno Shiragaki contained Barbara Banda for 87 minutes. We break down what went right, the midfield shift after Marta came on, and why this performance gives us real confidence heading into the stretch before the international break in June.

Standout Stats

Both teams finished with nearly identical numbers, except for one that may be cause for concern. We dig into what it might say about the Courage's predictability on the ball.

Looking Ahead: Chicago Stars

Lesley Ryder from Gal Pal Sports joins Trevor and Katie to break down a Chicago side decimated by injuries and searching for an identity. We discuss Brianna Pinto's return to WakeMed, what to watch in the midfield, and whether someone other than Ashley Sanchez or Manaka Matsukubo finds the back of the net

Courage News

The NWSL extended Feli Rauch's suspension to two games, and we still have plenty of questions about why. Plus, it's Star Wars Night at WakeMed. Come for the match, stay for the Grogu bobblehead.

Around the League

The NWSL officially tables the European calendar discussion through 2030. We share our thoughts on why that's probably the right call.

About The Lion’s Pitch Podcast

Welcome 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 & Follow

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitch

• Hosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie Cleary
• Produced by Mary Pruter
• Edited by Danielle Russell

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