Orlando Pride Head Coach Seb Hines
Opening Statement
“It was a really pleasing result. Filled with a lot of positives of the game. First of all, getting a win and getting that feeling back. Secondly, scoring some goals as well, which we’ve needed. I think the biggest highlight of tonight was getting Luana back onto the field. I think that was a really special moment for everyone. For her to go through what she's been through and go onto the field and show her class was so pleasing to see. A lot of really good moments today.”
On changes to the lineup
“Yeah, I thought it was a bit of a slow start and that was expected. Like you said, there were a lot of players, a lot of rotation. Players that haven't had a lot of minutes and trying to find that continuity within the team. It took us probably until the second half. But like I said, that was expected in the first half. We still created some good chances. But in the second half, we started to show our class, dictating the tempo of the game, creating a lot of opportunities, more aggressive in the press and regains. So, that was really pleasing to see.”
On Luana's comeback and her impact on the match
“Credit to the medical staff, Orlando Health, and obviously our own medical staff to get her to a place where she can come on and contribute and never look out of place as well. Like you said, she nearly had an assist with her first touch. She nearly had a goal as well. It was just so pleasing to see because behind the scenes we know how much work she's put into herself in a position where she can actually contribute to minutes and win those football matches. So, I thought the performance was terrific, even though it was just over 20 minutes. She certainly made an impact as soon as she came on and that's what we expect from all our players who come off the bench."
Orlando Pride Midfileder Luana
On maintaining momentum
“I think the effort is there. We are creating chances, we just need to work on our accuracy. I think we’re doing a great job and so we need to keep going. Now, these three goals, they bring us more confidence for the next game for our forwards too. I think we are evolving, and we take new things to every game. We are going to work this week and find what we need to beat Chicago.”
On what’s next for her after making her return to the pitch
“What’s next? I want to help the team and get more game time. Try to get to a good level and just enjoy being back. I know things are not going to be perfect. I need game time and just need to be patient and keep playing my best.”
