Seattle Reign Wrap Up Spokane Stretch Against Expansion Denver Summit

The Reign are closing out their three-game run in Spokane this weekend with a matchup against expansion side Denver Summit FC, and it's going to be a test for an offense that's suddenly clicking. Seattle has found another gear early in the season, and they're about to face a Summit team that's already got some serious pedigree on the sideline.

An Offense Firing on All Cylinders

Here's what's wild: the Reign have scored seven goals through their first four matches. Last year at this point? Four goals. That's the kind of jump that gets you excited about what's coming next. A newly energized Seattle attack will go up against Denver's backline, with expansion coach Nick Cushing calling the shots. Cushing spent the last couple years with New York City FC (2022-24) and has a long track record winning major trophies at Manchester City Women (2013-2020 and 2025).

Denver will roll out Abby Smith in goal, and she's not some unknown commodity. Smith earned NWSL Best XI of the Month honors for March after racking up 20 saves and two shutouts. The Summit are 1-1-2 so far this season, and they're hungry to prove themselves in this new league.

Huerta Anchoring the Defense

While the offense gets the spotlight, defender Sofia Huerta is doing serious work on the back line. She also grabbed NWSL Best XI of the Month for March, playing all 90 minutes in all four matches with two assists and 15 tackles (second most in the league). That's her 10th Best XI honor in her career. With Huerta captaining the defense, Seattle has outscored opponents 7-4 through four games.

Injury Updates Ahead of Saturday

The Reign will get defenders Jordyn Bugg and Shae Holmes available for the trip to Spokane, though neither has suited up yet this season due to leg injuries. Forwards Mia Fishel (leg), Maddie Dahlien (leg), and Holly Ward (undisclosed) won't travel because of their own injury situations.

Coach Laura Harvey is feeling better about the Spokane setup this time around. "The stadium has a modern Memorial feel to it for me," she said, comparing the facility to Memorial Stadium at Seattle Center, which is currently undergoing renovations. "That's quite enjoyable and nostalgic all at the same time. We're looking forward to going back. I'm not sure we were looking forward to getting on a plane and going when we went the first time, but we've definitely got a little bit more pep in our step now that we're a bit more recovered."

Reign (3-1) vs. Denver (1-1-2) | Saturday, 5:45 p.m. at ONE Spokane Stadium | Ion

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.