Nobody thought the clean sheet in the season opener was a sign the Dash's previously leaky defense was entirely fixed, but hopes were high that things finally were turning around.
The Dash never built momentum from the opener. They have conceded 12 goals in the five games since then, including five goals once and three goals another time.
Coach Randy Waldrum, who made it his No. 1 offseason focus to upgrade the defense, said he is not yet panicking because injuries and illnesses have left the team short of full strength.
Center back Bruna Benites is rehabilitating a knee injury and could be out 2-3 more weeks.