USWNT returnees earn 2-2 draw against Spain, an early World Cup wake-up call

The US were on the verge of losing two straight at home, but second-half goals from Ashley Sanchez and Mallory Swanson saved a draw It was nearly time for the panic button. Maybe not to press it, but to look at it – to acknowledge that it’s within reach.

A listless, shorthanded US women’s national team were struggling against Spain, down 2-0, and facing the ignominy of two straight decisive losses at home after Saturday’s 3-0 drubbing in Washington DC. Then two players who had just returned to the team after long absences turned…