Rest and Heal
Monday, August 2, 2021 USWNT vs CANWNT semifinal -
Alyssa Naeher (USWNT goalkeeper) out, Adrianna "A.D." Franch in
Thirty minutes. She'd only lasted thirty minutes.
Alyssa Michele Naeher castigated herself roundly, the pain in her leg overwhelming everything. But she could not cry. She must not cry, not where everyone could see her. She was carried off the field, A.D.'s hand brushing hers as the younger woman ran to take her place in the goal, and taken to the infirmary. Given a sedative, she slipped into blissful unconsciousness. When she woke, it was to an unexpected voice.
"Hey. Doing all right, Nittany Cub?" Alyssa's eyes blinked open, and she focused on Erin McLeod, who had been her opposite number in goal. Her fellow Penn State graduate brushed a gentle hand through her hair, and Alyssa shivered.
"Hurts," she whispered.
"I know, kiddo," Erin said sympathetically, pulling up a chair and sitting by Alyssa. "It's not your fault, sweetheart, it's okay, it was an accident, no one's mad."
Alyssa managed a tremulous smile. "Is Becky..."
"Congratulating Sinc," Erin explained, and Alyssa paled at the implication.
"Is it over? Did we..."
"I'm sorry, sweetheart," Erin murmured, stroking Alyssa's cheek gently. "There's still the bronze medal match."
Alyssa bowed her head. "I won't be playing in it though."
"No," Erin agreed, giving the American a hug. "You've hyperextended your right knee. Bone contusion, too." Her tone was laden with sympathy. "Listen, cub, you have nothing at all to be ashamed of. You've carried this team, been so dependable, no one should have anything to complain about with you. Some of your teammates maybe...but not you. Now, I'll wait with you until Becky comes, but until then...just rest and heal."