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Cary, North Carolina – Saturday, August 3, 2019: North Carolina Courage vs Washington Spirit at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.
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TJ Davis
Washingtonspirit.com
Boyds, MD., (8/27/2019) – There are few players with a skill set that are capable of adequately fulfilling a midfield position.
Depending on gameplans and injuries, midfielders are tasked with taking on multiple roles that range from heavily defensive characteristics to heavily offensive characteristics and everything in between. Players in the midfield are required to challenge attacking runs and make crucial tackles, but also have the stamina and skill to head back up the field and contribute offensively when needed.
Spirit midfielder Meggie Doughtery Howard, also known as MDH, is one of the longest-tenured players on the young Washington roster and has consistently displayed her dynamic skill set for the Spirit since she was drafted 29th overall by Washington in the 2017 NWSL draft.
The Largo, Florida native attended the University of Florida, where she collected numerous accolades such as SEC Tournament Most Valuable Player, NSCAA Scholar All-America First-Team, and many more while starting for the Gators. Doughtery Howard has also made appearances for the U.S. U-23 National Team and additionally played for the Washington Spirit reserves team in 2015 and 2016.
The 24-year-old midfielder has started 15 games for the Spirit this season and played in 17 total, accumulating 1283 minutes played. MDH is also fourth on the team in attempted shots, with 13 on the season.
Dougherty Howard has recently shown her offensive ability as the Spirit press on in an attempt to move back into the top four of the NWSL table. The midfielder posted 44 touches, 35 passes with 74% accuracy, and 4 chances created for the Spirit in their win over the Orlando Pride on August 24.
In the August 21 draw against Utah, she also totaled 3 shots, 55 touches, and 45 total passes including this impressive strike showcasing her ability when near the box.
Meggie Dougherty Howard shows some skills for @WashSpirit and then @nbarnhart flashes the gloves for @UtahRoyalsFC.
0-0 | #WASvUTA pic.twitter.com/QAvJ7BlrXe
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) August 22, 2019
Doughtery Howard has also recorded 24 interceptions, 17 clearances, and 3 blocks on the season, stunting opposing attacks and turning the ball over to the Spirit in the midfield area.
The talented midfielder, who signed an extension before the season, remains as one of the most reliable players for the Spirit as she has played in 63 of her 66 games in her three years with Washington. The Spirit will look to her dependability as they continue to work towards a playoff spot as the season closes.
