Morgan Andrews made the first start of her NWSL career on Saturday night during Boston’s 3-1 setback on the home pitch of the first-place North Carolina Courage.

The Milford native and No. 3 overall pick of this year’s NWSL draft played a full match for the first time this season and registered one shot on goal and one corner kick.

The defeat dropped the slumping Breakers to 2-5-2 overall on the season, while the Courage improved to 7-3-0. Boston has been battling some injuries and hasn’t played at home since May 19.

Boston coach Matt Beard (@mattbeard02) tweeted Saturday: “I am responsible for our results. The last 3 road trips haven’t been good enough. We can & will turn it around with belief & hard work.”

The teams will play again Saturday, but this time at Boston’s Jordan Field in Allston, Mass. Kickoff is slated for 4 p.m.

– Jason Orfao