Gotham FC winger Guro Reiten is making her adjustment to the NWSL look easy despite being asked to play in an unnatural position of left-back.
The Norwegian national team star has appeared more than comfortable at left-back, though that experiment is unlikely to last much longer given the return of first-choice left-back Lilly Reale.
Reiten Records First NWSL Assist in Win Over Chicago Stars FC
Reiten’s chemistry with her new teammates was apparent throughout Gotham’s 2-0 away victory over Chicago Stars FC on Wednesday.
After rookie Jordynn Dudley put the Bats ahead 1-0 just 46 seconds into the match, Reiten would connect with midfielder Rose Lavelle to double Gotham’s advantage to 2-0 nine minutes later.
The 31-year-old spotted Lavelle drifting toward the far post and placed a cross on a silver platter directly to Lavelle’s right boot. Lavelle volleyed the ball into the back of the net to give Reiten her first career NWSL assist.
“It was a great start from the team today,” Reiten said following the match. “We talked about a fast start and scored two within the first 10. It’s always good to contribute with an assist, but as long as the team keeps scoring and keeps winning, we’re happy. Next time maybe some more goals, but we’re creating the chances, so that’s good.”
Gotham Will Benefit Once Reiten Moves To Preferred Left-Wing Role
It’s fair to expect Reiten to feel even more comfortable once she is moved to her preferred position of left wing, once Reale is able to start again. That switch could take place on Sunday when Gotham welcomes Racing Louisville to Sports Illustrated Stadium after Reale appeared for 29 minutes as a substitute on Wednesday.
“I’ve loved every second so far,” Reiten stated. “The girls are really nice. I’ve played two games, but I’ve had three sessions. I would love more time to get to know them on and off the pitch. You can already see connections starting to build, and with time, that’s going to get better and better. There are so many great players in this squad, and I’m excited for the future.”
Though she’s only played for a total of 107 minutes since joining Gotham, Reiten is already proving to be a wise investment given her adaptability to left-back in an emergency situation, her gifted left foot and her bubbly, optimistic personality that has made her popular in the dressing room.
Once Reiten is installed at left wing and is fully up to speed with Juan Carlos Amorós’ system, she’s going to create plenty of goalscoring opportunities and moments of magic with her cultured left foot.
Gotham FC general manager Yael Averbuch West pushed hard to bring Reiten to the club after the Norwegian ace lifted 13 major trophies with Chelsea. After a long wait due to visa delays, Reiten is showing everyone why her addition could supercharge the reigning NWSL champions.
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