Seattle, WA – April 27, 2026 – All the signs pointed to an electric start to the Seattle Reign’s 13th season on Sunday afternoon at Lumen Field. Under sunny, dry skies, special guests Seattle Torrent raised Reign scarves to welcome the team onto the pitch, setting the stage for a celebratory home opener.
Adding to the excitement, veteran midfielder Jess Fishlock signed a one-year contract extension, postponing retirement for another season.
But Utah had other plans.
The Utah Royals seized control almost immediately, handing the Reign their first loss of the season in a decisive 3–0 shutout. The tone was set within the opening minute when Paige Cronin scored her first goal of the season, slipping the ball past Reign goalkeeper Claudia Dickey to give Utah a 1–0 lead.
The Royals didn’t let up. In the 7th minute, midfielder Narumi Miura doubled the advantage with a long-range strike, putting Seattle on its heels early.
Cloé Lacasse added a third goal just before halftime, sending the Reign into the break facing a steep 3–0 deficit they could not overcome.
Seattle’s struggles were compounded in the 64th minute when captain Jess Fishlock sustained a leg injury and was stretchered off the field. No further update on her condition has been provided.
The Reign were unable to mount a comeback, as Utah’s early dominance proved insurmountable.
Seattle will look to regroup on the road against the Houston Dash on Friday, May 1 at 5:00 p.m. PT.
Next Home Match: May 10, 2026 vs the Washington Spirit at Lumen Field. All matches stream free on VICTORY+.
Photos by Ryley Stivers – Follow us on Instagram and BlueSky!
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