The NC Courage lose 1-4 to Utah Royals in, ironically, one of our strongest matches of the season. This game featured three goals conceded from corners, a brilliant press from the Courage, Erica Meg Parkinson's first start, and Natalie Jacobs back on the pitch. Trevor and Katie break it all down before previewing a big week with matches against Orlando and Denver. Plus some exciting signing news.

Three goals from corners in one match, which is about as statistically likely as it sounds. But there was plenty to feel good about too. Erica Meg Parkinson impressed in her first NWSL start, the press was the best we've seen all season, Evelyn Ijeh got in Mandy McGlynn's head, and Natalie Jacobs made a welcome return to the pitch. We break down what went wrong on set pieces, what went right everywhere else, and why this might be a match that kick-starts something.

Two matches in one week — Orlando at home on Friday, then a road trip to Denver on Wednesday. We break down what to expect without Barbara Banda, whether Parkinson can out-Marta Marta, and why Denver's clean style of play might actually suit the Courage. Can we take home six points in one week?

Parkinson talks about reuniting with Lauren Thompson on the pitch for the first time in two years, something they've dreamed about since their England youth days. The Courage sign Norwegian international Vilde Bøe Risa from Atletico Madrid, who has 95 caps for Norway and is available as early as Friday.

Esther González departs Gotham. ESPN launches a weekly Women's Sports Sunday segment. WAFCON is underway with 11 NWSL players competing. And the golden boot race heats up with Banda and Esther both away from their clubs.

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 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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