Nashville Rhythm Undefeated So Far This Season

By Dave Wasiolek

This past weekend was a make-or-break test that could determine the course of the rest of the Nashville Rhythm’s 2021 WPSL season. The Rhythm came into their June 13th match undefeated, having beaten 2nd place North Alabama a few days before in a tight 2 – 1 contest in Birmingham to move to 5 – 0 – 0. Just 48 hours later they faced their arch rival and other top team, the Chattanooga Red Wolves, in another crucial contest.

The evening was so humid the ladies had to swim out onto the pitch, but with a capacity crowd filling Siegel Stadium cheering them on both squads came out strong. Throughout the first half the action ebbed and flowed but in general the Rhythm were getting the better of the pitch until late in the half, when the effects of playing on a short turnaround began to show and the Wolves were able to generate their most dangerous thrusts. However, some excellent defensive work, particularly by defender Miya Lennon and keeper Sydney Weinstein, kept the Wolves from ringing the bell and as such when the two squads retired to their benches for halftime the score remained 0 – 0.

As the second half began it was evident that the Rhythm had found their second wind and they pushed the play back into the Wolves’ defensive end. As the Wolves’ frustration built they began to press and the fouls began to rain down. With the ever-increasing whistles, Chattanooga began collecting cards from a center ref who to that point had shown the patience of Job. Still, despite the numerous free kicks and many close chances, the Rhythm were not able to capitalize, and the score remained unchanged. Then as the match neared its conclusion and the gathering thunder clouds sent forth flashes like the paparazzi on Hollywood Blvd, Peyton DePriest baited a pass to an outside back and with perfect timing sliced in to intercept the delivery. She drove on goal as two defenders raced desperately to cut her off and the keeper came crashing off the line. But no one was going to catch Peyton and from 16 yards out she struck a low ball to the opposite side net that kissed the post and... went just wide, as the last serious opportunity to claim 3 points faded into the night and the match ended in a 0 – 0 draw.

While missing out on the win was disappointing, staying undefeated while collecting 4 out of 6 points over 48 hours against the two most demanding opponents in the division can only be seen a great success. Well done ladies!

There are only 4 matches left in the regular season for your Rhythm side, with the next home match coming up on Sunday, June 20 at 6:00 at Trevecca University. Don’t miss the opportunity to come out and watch some exciting soccer, eat some great Mexican food, and cheer on your Rhythm as they seek to continue their undefeated streak this season.