The NWSL is back! Check out the top three goals and saves from this weekend in terms of the difference between their post-shot expected goals (PSxG) and expected goals (xG).
Basically, these are the goals where the player taking the shot added the most value just on shot quality and the saves where the keeper was best able to navigate this unexpected extra shot quality.
Goal 1: Maiara Niehues vs. Orlando Pride (0.75 PSxG on 0.12 xG)
Nieheus takes the perfect touch to set herself up and then is just too casual with her shot through traffic to put Angel City up.
Goal 2: Jordyn Huitema vs. Utah Royals (0.74 PSxG on 0.13 xG)
Huitema is able to take advantage of Maitane’s header into the mix to earn her team their fourth win of the season.
Goal 3: Pietra Tordin vs. Racing Louisville (0.65 PSxG on 0.09 xG)
Fancy footwork from Tordin opens up a shooting window that she does not fail to take advantage of.
Save 1: Jordyn Bloomer vs. Portland Thorns (0.70 PSxG on 0.13 xG)
Bloomer has quick reflexes to deny a shot from one of the league’s early MVP candidates.
Save 2: Abby Smith vs. Kansas City Current (0.67 PSxG on 0.11 xG)
Debinha has a shooting lane, but Smith’s acrobatics keep her shot out of the back of the net.
Save 3: Mandy McGlynn vs. Chicago Stars (0.66 PSxG on 0.17 xG)
Despite her team’s botched efforts to clear, McGlynn makes sure this play doesn’t turn into a goal.
