Orlando Pride Head Coach Seb Hines
Opening Statement
“A hard-fought draw. We are disappointed that we didn’t come away with the three points with the goal that we conceded. We showed a lot of grit and determination to get ourselves back in the game. A well-taken goal from Simone [Charley], as well. She has been working hard to get that opportunity. She took it well and I think with the week that we have had, being on the road for ten days, any points you can get away from home is a good point. Overall, pleased with the performance. We move on. We look forward to next week, being back home in front of our fans.”
On Simone Charley scoring her goal
“It’s massive. Having experienced long-term injuries myself and just waiting for that opportunity, just getting back on the field is a goal, but actually contributing in the way that she did, she should be very proud of herself, as well as the medical team to put her in that position. She has progressed really well from the start to this period here now in the second half of the season. Credit to her and her determination. She is looking sharp and is looking like she is ready to go and contribute more. We are excited because it’s like having a new player. Hopefully she can continue to score more goals moving forward.”
On the 10-day road trip
“It certainly has been a challenge. Going into the San Diego game, everyone is fresh and ready to go and then off the back of that going to an environment like Club America, which was really tough circumstances, environment and everything. Then coming here against a team that wants to make the playoffs and get over the line. Overall, really pleased. I think getting a point here with the circumstances and the 10 days we have been on the road. Four points in two regular-season away matches isn’t bad.
Orlando Pride Forward Simone Charley
Opening Statement
“It was a hard-fought game. We have had three road matches back-to-back-to-back, one internationally, as well, and so for us it was just about our mentality and grit and digging deep, and I think you saw that with how we were able to fight back and get a tie. Obviously, we want three points and that’s what we’re heading for, but at the end of the day, we showed our grit and I’m proud of that.”
On scoring her first goal since Sept. 2022
“McCutcheon played a beautiful ball in and I just threw my body at it and headed it. When I saw it go in, I just fell out and I just thought about the journey and how hard it has been. I’m just really grateful. It’s been a long time coming and I am so grateful for everyone who helped me get here. That’s what flashed in my head, and I thank God for that because that’s the only reason why I’m still playing. It means so much to me.”
On what scoring this goal meant to her
“I feel like this goal means so much. It’s been so hard these last two and a half years. There were so many times I wanted to quit. There were a lot of times I never thought I would come back and play again. I’m just so grateful for the people in my corner, on the team, on the medical staff, coaching staff and everyone because they have been with me every step of the way. They are the ones who kept me going and encouraging me when I didn’t think I’d be out here again, let alone scoring and doing what I love. It flashed in my head just how grateful I am. I feel like this is the most joy and gratefulness I have had playing. I thank God for the strength that He has given me and the grace to just play and to play is such a blessing. Playing is such a blessing.
