Horan Comes Home

In the summer of 2012 when Lindsey Horan signed a professional contract with the PSG Women in France, she knew it might be awhile before she played again in America. Four years later, Horan, a seasoned pro at 22 years old, and now a full member of the US Women’s National Team, returned to play her first professional game within her home state of Colorado against powerhouse Japan as both teams prepare for the Olympics this summer in Rio.

The game did not start the way the Americans would hope as Japan opened the scoring in the 14^th minute and added on in the 22^nd to keep the sold out, standing room only crowd quiet. Another Colorado product making her professional debut in state, Mallory Pugh played a great cross into the box finding Alex Morgan in the 27^th minute to go 2-1 down into halftime.

A red card ejection to Japan in the 57^th minute give the Americans some hope of a comeback and on came Horan who did not start as she was returning from a slight injury. A second goal from Alex Morgan in the 64^th minute equaled the score and set up the Golden, Colorado native Horan for the grand finale.

With the game clock ticking into the 89^th minute, defender Kelley O’Hara broke in down the left wing and played in a floated ball right to the PK spot where Horan was waiting and expertly headed the ball passed the oncoming Japanese goalkeeper for the 3-2 lead!

Sadly not all fairy tales end on a high note as Japan pushed hard in extra time and found a game tying goal in the 93^rd minute.

Ever the professional, the Woman of the Match Horan graciously spoke with the TV media at the game and then with a huge eruption of cheers from the grandstand (led by Master of Rush Cheers Russell Finch) came over for pictures, selfies and dozens of autographs for the numerous Colorado Rush players who had gathered to sing chants for Lindsey during the game.

Coach Finch teaching new chants during the game

Lindsey with her former CO Rush Coach Brian Lux

It was truly a great moment from a great pro and a great ambassador for the Rush. Thank you for all you do Lindsey and we all look forward to seeing you go for Olympic Gold this summer!

Until next time... Thanks Lindsey!