WNY draws the Thorns FC in the semifinals on Oct. 2.
ELMA, N.Y. — The Western New York Flash (9-6-5) will face the Portland Thorns FC (12-3-5) in the semifinals of the 2016 National Women’s Soccer League Playoffs on Sunday, Oct. 2. The Thorns defeated Sky Blue FC on Sunday to secure the NWSL Shield and the top seed in the playoffs, meaning they will take on the fourth-seeded Flash.
The Flash and Thorns have met twice this season and Portland came away from both meetings with a win. The most recent meeting was a 3-2 Portland win on Sept. 11, where the Thorns held off a furious comeback by the Flash to secure a home playoff match.
The Flash defeated the Boston Breakers on Saturday evening to secure the fourth and final playoff spot, joining the Thorns, Washington Spirit, and Chicago Red Stars. Washington (12-5-3) and Chicago (9-5-6) will meet in the other semifinal on Friday, September 30.
The match between the Flash and the Thorns will be held at Providence Park in Portland, Oregon, at 5:00 ET (2:00 PT) and will be broadcasted on Fox Sports 1. The winner of the match will travel to Houston, TX., for the NWSL Championship on Sunday, Oct. 9.