Super Falcons defender Nicole Payne had another strong performance in her second consecutive start for Portland Thorns as they dominated the Seattle Reign 4-0 in a convincing victory on matchday 9 of the NWSL.

The match started with both teams displaying tactical discipline, but it was Portland Thorns who broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute. Olivia Moultri’s well-placed right-footed shot, assisted by Sophia Smith, found the back of the net, giving Thorns the lead.

Seattle Reign tried to mount a comeback, but Portland Thorns remained solid defensively, with Nicole Payne putting in a commendable performance. Payne wasn’t just focused on defensive duties; in the 64th minute, she came close to scoring herself, but her right-footed shot narrowly missed the target after a nice through ball from Janine Beckie.

Seattle pressed for an equalizer, but the Thorns’ defense held firm. The lead was doubled in the 79th minute when Sofia Smith converted a penalty after a handball by Sofia Huerta.

The floodgates opened in stoppage time. Hina Sugita and Payton Linnehan scored the 3rd and 4th goals for the Thorns, with Smith providing assists for both.

With this dominant win, the Thorns maintain their momentum. Nicole Payne and her teammates will look to continue their winning streak when they travel to face the Houston Dash next weekend in matchday 10 of the NWSL season.