Canada’s Christine Sinclair just two wins away from another NWSL title

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Canadian Sabrina D’Angelo started the season as North Carolina’s No. 1 goalkeeper but dropped down to No. 2 behind Kate Rowland after missing time with a high ankle sprain.

Saturday will mark the 20th meeting between Portland and Seattle but the first in the post-season. While Seattle won two of the three meetings this season, the career series is knotted at eight wins apiece with three draws.

“Two obviously very talented teams going head to head,” said Sinclair. “And obviously Portland-Seattle is a huge rivalry, especially with what happened just a few days ago. We’re very excited and looking to duplicate our performance.”

Portland won the regular-season finale 3-1 on Sept. 7, ensuring home playoff advantage by rallying from a 1-0 disadvantage. Seattle stars Megan Rapinoe and Allie Long missed that game but should be back for the playoff matchup.

“Those are two world-class soccer players that can make a huge difference,” said Sinclair.

“This will be a different game and we need to find a new level,” added Portland coach Mark Parsons.

Sinclair, who helped design the team’s 2017 championship ring, has enjoyed a banner season, ranking fifth in goals (with nine) and fourth in assists (six).

Parsons converted her from a No. 9 to a No. 10 midway through last season, allowing her to take a deeper role.

“It’s really grown on me and I think, especially with the personnel we have, it allows me to be involved in the game as much as possible but also find myself in the 18(-yard box) able to score goals and set up goals.”

“I’m open to anything that helps our team succeed,” she added.

Parsons said the move was made to allow Sinclair to play a larger role with the team.

“She’s grown in this role,” he said. “She continues to improve, continues to have bigger and more impact on the game.”

Portland will have to crack a tough Seattle defence. Seattle conceded just 19 goals this season, second only to North Carolina (17).
 

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Neil Davidson, The Canadian Press