At home on August 28 versus Sky Blue FC the Freedom came away with a very important 2-1 win in a battle for the final playoff spot as the WPS season winds down.
So, can we assume Emma Hayes the missing link?
In response to the question: "Was Emma Hayes the missing link for the Washington Freedom?" Hayes said:
It's nice to feel useful and helping the team get organized but Jim [Gabarra] and the girls deserve all the credit. Spirit and character is what they have in abundance.The Washington Freedom added former Chicago Red Stars head coach Emma Hayes to the coaching staff as a "soccer consultant" following a ten game win less streak earlier this season. To learn about her coaching philosophy and influence check out these videos:
After watching the USMNT vs. Brazil game a few weeks back, I can appreciate her using the Brazilian style of play as an influence. It works for Marta, Cristian, and the other Brazilian women so maybe it has changed the style of play on the field with the Freedom over the last five games. Hopefully Hayes has brought enough to the staff to help the team keep their spot in the top four WPS playoff teams.
Whether or not Emma Hayes is directly responsible for the Freedom's turnaround, there is no denying we have seen an entirely new team over the last month during this amazing push towards the playoffs.