tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40630986928143338782024-02-07T22:07:12.320-08:00WOMEN'S SOCCER INSIDERAn inside view of the Womens Professional Soccer league.GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.comBlogger313125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-86448304197261679412010-04-25T09:53:00.000-07:002010-04-25T09:54:36.926-07:00WEEKEND PREVIEW 3 -SUNDAY 25th April 2010<div class="teamImgWrapper"><div class="homeWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/stlouis"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/stl.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div><div class="vsWrapper"><div class="content">VS </div></div><div class="awayWrapper"><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/bos.gif" width="57" /> </div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"> <b>Sun April 25th 2010 6pm ET/11pm GMT Live FSC / <a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/Home/video/webcast.aspx" style="color: red;">Webcast</a><span style="color: red;">/</span> <a href="http://www.streamaudio.com/player/player.aspx?station=KSLG_AM&Optin=no" style="color: red;">Audio</a></b></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><b style="color: #274e13;">Saint Louis Athletica</b> host the <b style="color: blue;">Boston Breakers</b> at The Anheuser-Busch Soccer Park tonight with the top of the WPS table up for grabs.</div><div class="awayWrapper"><div class="content">Both teams have identical records so far this season with both starting out with a win and then tying their games last weekend. Both team’s leading scorers <b>Eniola Aluko</b> and Boston's <b>Kelly Smith, </b>both teammates on England’s Women’s National Team have two goals each this season. Both Boston and Saint Louis have scored three goals this season. So really on paper there is nothing to separate them. </div><div class="content">On the field <b style="color: #274e13;">Athletica </b>will be starting with their formidable midfield which consists of <b>Shannon Boxx</b>, Captain <b>Lori Chalupny</b>, <b>Tina DiMartino</b> and <b>Aya Miyama</b>. Aluko will look to latch on to the chances created by them.</div><div class="content">The<b style="color: blue;"> Breakers</b> will look to play through Smith, captain <b>Kristine Lilly</b> and <b>Lauren Cheney</b>. Their backline of <b>Stephanie Cox</b>, <b>Amy LePeilbet</b>, <b>Kasey Moore</b>, and <b>Alex Scott</b> have started forming a cohesive unit and are very strong.</div><div class="content"><b>Prediction - close game. Score draw.</b></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"><br />
<div class="teamImgWrapper"><div class="homeWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/chicago"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/chi.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div><div class="vsWrapper"><div class="content">VS</div></div><div class="awayWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/ny"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/nj.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div></div><b> Sun April 25th 2010 6pm ET / 11pm GMT Webcast(delayed) 7.30pm ET/ 12.30am GMT</b></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div>The <b style="color: red;">Chicago Red Stars</b> search for their first win of the season when they host the defending champions <b style="color: #0b5394;">Sky Blue FC</b> at Toyota Park. They look to overturn the scoreline on the first day of the season in New Jersey where they lost 1-0 to a <b>Natasha Kai </b>goal. Chicago played well but couldn't get the ball in the net.</div><div class="awayWrapper">They went one better last weekend against Saint Louis Athletica where they scored a goal to draw the match. <b>Casey Noguiera </b>getting her first professional goal. Head coach <b>Emma Hayes </b>will be looking for the team to take their chances and get in front of goal more. Something they have been working on in training.</div><div class="awayWrapper">Sky Blue FC will be looking to bounce back from their 3-1 defeat last weekend from FC Gold Pride. </div><div class="awayWrapper"><b style="color: #0b5394;">Sky Blue</b> have been dissappointing so far this season in their forward play and midfield.In midfield the likes of <b>Carli Lloyd</b> and<b> Kasey White </b>need to make more of a precence. With Lloyd in particular needing to stamp her authority in midfield. The game passed her by against Chicago in game one and last weekend she was subbed out at half-time against Gold Pride.</div><div class="awayWrapper"><b>Prediction - Home win</b>.</div><div class="awayWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="awayWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="awayWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="awayWrapper"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="teamImgWrapper"><div class="homeWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/philadelphia"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/phi.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div><div class="vsWrapper"><div class="content">VS</div></div><div class="awayWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/dc"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/wsh.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div></div><div class="awayWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="awayWrapper"><br />
<div class="content"><b> Sun April 25th 2010 6pm ET/ 11pm GMT</b></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div>The<b style="color: #666666;"> Philadelphia Independence</b> will host its second home game at John A. Farrell Stadium this Sunday as they take on WPS neighbor to the south, <b style="color: #660000;">Washington Freedom</b>. The Independence is still looking to earn its first win of the season after back-to-back ties against Atlanta and Boston in the opening matches.</div><div class="awayWrapper"><div class="content">Backup goalkeeper <b>Val Henderson</b> is in net this weekend in her first appearance for the Independence. Starting goalkeeper <b>Karina LeBlanc</b> is in China competing with the Canadian National Team. Midfielder <b>Jenn Buczkowski</b> misses out from suspension after her red card last weekend in Boston.</div><div class="content"><b style="color: #660000;">Washington</b> hope to build on the confidence gained from last week’s win against another expansion team Atlanta Beat and to continue making improvements throughout the defensive line. <b>Brittany Bock</b> is still not available for the Freedom.</div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"><b>Prediction - Home win </b></div><div class="content"><br />
</div><div class="content"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="content"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"><br />
</div><div class="content"><br />
</div><div class="content"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"><b> </b> </div></div></div>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-47489013519452690512010-04-24T13:35:00.000-07:002010-04-24T13:35:04.266-07:00WEEKEND PREVIEW 3 - SATURDAY 24th April 2010<div class="teamImgWrapper"> <div class="homeWrapper"> <div class="content"> <a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/bayarea"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/bay.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div><div class="vsWrapper"> <div class="content">VS</div></div><div class="awayWrapper"> <div class="content"> </div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"></div><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/atlanta"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/atl.gif" width="57" /></a></div><div class="content"> </div><div class="content"> </div><div class="content"> <b>Sat April 24th 2010 10pm ET /3am GMT</b></div><div class="content"><b> </b></div><div class="content"><b> </b></div><div class="content"><b style="color: #7f6000;">FC Gold Pride</b> remain at home taking on the <b style="color: #990000;">Atlanta Beat</b> for the first time. Pride are coming into the game of an impressive 3-1 win against the defending champions Sky Blue FC and Atlanta need to rebound from a 3-1 defeat by Washington Freedom last weekend.</div><div class="content">Atlanta Beat goalkeeper <b>Allison Whitworth</b> and defender <b>Leigh Ann Robinson</b> will face their former team and <b>Ramona Bachmann</b> is in line to meet up with former teammate <b>Marta</b>. The two played together in Sweden with Umea IK.</div><div class="content">There will be several players missing from both teams due to international duty , injury and suspension.</div>The <b style="color: #990000;">Beat’s</b> <b>Kia McNeill </b>is unavailable due to a one game suspension and the backline looks like being <b>Lauren Sesselmann</b>, <b>Stacy Bishop</b>, <b>Leigh Ann Robinson</b>, and <b>Sophia Mundy</b>.</div><div class="awayWrapper"><b style="color: #7f6000;">Gold Pride</b> will be without striker <b>Christine Sinclair</b> and defender <b>Candace Chapman</b> who are away on international duty with Canada. Marta is being monitored hour by hour on a bruised ankle she picked up last weekend and fullback <b>Ali Riley</b> is looking doubtful due to illness. She has not trained all week due to a virus. </div><div class="awayWrapper">Whoever is on the field expect this matchup to be exciting and play to be fast.</div><div class="awayWrapper"><b>Prediction - Home win.</b></div><div class="awayWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="awayWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="awayWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="awayWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="awayWrapper"><div class="content"><br />
</div><div class="content"><br />
</div><div class="content"><br />
</div><div class="content"><br />
</div></div></div>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-4402449121588139932010-04-19T11:57:00.000-07:002010-04-20T10:15:21.935-07:00WPS -WEEK 2 RESULTS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJCRn0WDiWDjosfHvqFHqbq0WOIVfpwQtYmgjBzJ7ltz2NtmDYhqPOXBa3P-Q1W40CfrTaFN4iSvitRXn795eByHgracHWGzDcBeZIY_-eunuHoYLFGfS8y968dPIlQ74Paun3mrfpNk/s1600/casey-nogueira.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8CWhYYyFvZyyX8qtWQGL3QKSdRIV13-0nWF8WobX1tAANBEUWJr1q-g2qf0ljfpcMub_hwSOsvJpSn3D7TlFYR8DWiIGN_rFhuEgeozGByPxTxC6TpBwTOzKLLJMX1ANPVkKzTASM_O4/s1600/fcgpcelebrate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj26PwIEoCc8JUYNbObGN0dxzX-VFp2O00IypUlq0mRugv-d88JqHmQ4u5MIuo-4fHjbf6QtvN5P7uR65M3yoxnnu_rkC48twYC9zXFNP-dcLnBe8GSWXDObNVU1vO4SthagOcXLrCkVH4/s1600/bos_philly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj26PwIEoCc8JUYNbObGN0dxzX-VFp2O00IypUlq0mRugv-d88JqHmQ4u5MIuo-4fHjbf6QtvN5P7uR65M3yoxnnu_rkC48twYC9zXFNP-dcLnBe8GSWXDObNVU1vO4SthagOcXLrCkVH4/s320/bos_philly.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<b>Boston Breakers v Philadelphia Independence Sun April 18th </b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
The <b style="color: #666666;">Philadelphia Independence</b> held the <b style="color: blue;">Boston Breakers</b> to a <b>1-1</b> draw on Sunday at Harvard Stadium.<br />
The game came alive in the 2nd half and was end to end and also very physical which resulted in the Independence midfielder <b>Jen Buczowski</b> sent off for incurring 2 yellows.<br />
It was <b style="color: blue;">Boston </b>who started the 1st half on the front foot. They had an early chance when <b>Kristine Lilly</b> was put through at the side of the box and drove inside. She looked to be brought down by <b>Heather Mitts</b>. The referee pointed to the spot to award a PK however he went to his assistant ref who said Lilly was offside. Freekick to Philadelphia. The Breakers had a few more dangerous opportunities in the first half, but <b>Karina LeBlanc</b> came up with three major saves to keep the game scoreless entering halftime.<b>Lianne Sanderson</b> towards the end of the 1st half was through on goal but was denied by <b>Ashley Phillips</b>.<br />
The <b style="color: #666666;">Independence</b> came out energized in the second half, substituting <b>Joanna Lohman</b> for Mitts and switching to a 4-4-2 formation. However The Breakers got the 1st goal in the 49th minute. A<b> Kelly Smith</b> free kick that was deflected of the wall. Le Blanc had no chance she was going the other way and had to correct herself. Smith's 2nd goal of the season.<br />
The Independence bounced back immediately, equalizing just six minutes later off a headed finish from central defender<b> Allison Falk</b>. <b>Lori Lindsey</b> sent a perfect bending free kick to the back post that Falk buried beyond Breakers keeper<b> </b>Phillips. Falk scored the first-ever WPS goal last season in the inaugural 2009 WPS match, and tonight scored the first-ever WPS goal for the Independence franchise. <br />
Both teams continued to create offensive chances for the remainder of the half until Philadelphia went down to 10 with the red card for Buczowski in the 88th minute. Boston took the game to Philadelphia for the final minutes but the Independence held on for the point.<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Lineups</b><b>Boston Breakers</b>: Ashley Phillips; Alex Scott, Amy LePeilbet, Stephanie Cox, Kasey Moore; Chioma Igwe, Leslie Osborne, Kristine Lilly<b>(C)</b>, Kelly Smith (Tiffany Weimer,89'), Liz Bogus (Laura del Rio, 74'); Lauren Cheney<br />
<b>Philadelphia Independence</b>: Karina LeBlanc<b>(C)</b>; Nikki Krzysik, Allison Falk, Sara Larsson, Heather Mitts (Joanna Lohman, 46'); Jen Buczkowski <span style="color: red;">(R-88)</span>, Caroline Seger, Lori Lindsay (Estelle Johnson, 90'); Holmfridur Magnsdottir, Lianne Sanderson (Denesha Adams, 69'), Amy Rodriguez<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Midfielder Kelly Smith, Boston Breakers</b> <br />
<i> </i> <br />
<i>On what the Breakers can improve on</i> <br />
<span style="color: blue;">Finishing when we have our opportunities. You know I had one where I should’ve scored early on. [Kristine] Lilly had one that she probably deserved and was disappointed that she didn’t put away. [Lauren] Cheney at the end there with the header. Opportunities that you need to put away in games like this.</span><br />
<i>On her knee</i> <br />
<span style="color: blue;">Fine. Good, healthy. </span><br />
<br />
<b>Defender Allison Falk, Philadelphia Independence</b> <br />
<i>On her goal</i> <br />
<span style="color: #444444;">It was the perfect ball that came in. I was wide open went up for it, put a head on it and it went in. It was very exciting that first goal [for us] that tied the game and brought momentum back in our favor.</span><br />
<br />
<object height="364" width="445"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/-ml_qagg00M&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/-ml_qagg00M&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="445" height="364"></embed></object><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8CWhYYyFvZyyX8qtWQGL3QKSdRIV13-0nWF8WobX1tAANBEUWJr1q-g2qf0ljfpcMub_hwSOsvJpSn3D7TlFYR8DWiIGN_rFhuEgeozGByPxTxC6TpBwTOzKLLJMX1ANPVkKzTASM_O4/s1600/fcgpcelebrate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8CWhYYyFvZyyX8qtWQGL3QKSdRIV13-0nWF8WobX1tAANBEUWJr1q-g2qf0ljfpcMub_hwSOsvJpSn3D7TlFYR8DWiIGN_rFhuEgeozGByPxTxC6TpBwTOzKLLJMX1ANPVkKzTASM_O4/s320/fcgpcelebrate.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<b>FC Gold Pride v NJ Sky Blue FC Sat April 17th </b> <br />
<br />
<br />
In their home opener, <b style="color: #7f6000;">FC Gold Pride</b> defeated defending WPS champion <b style="color: #0b5394;">Sky Blue FC</b> <b>3-1</b>, with a pair of goals by <b>Christine Sinclair</b> and a goal by <b>Marta</b>. Sky Blue FC leveled the game with an early goal in the 2nd half from <b>Laura Kalmari</b> in the 49th minute but it was not enough to avoid their 1st defeat in 4 matches.<br />
The <b style="color: #7f6000;">Pride</b> started the first half strong creating multiple chances to score with shots from<b> Camille Abily</b>, <b>Marta</b>, and <b>Sinclair</b>. In the 10th minute, Sinclair scored her first goal of the season, putting away a deflected save off a shot from Abily. <b style="color: #0b5394;">Sky Blue</b> came back and created a couple of chances.In the 28th minute, Kalmari struck a well hit ball towards the FC Gold Pride net, and the next two Sky Blue FC possessions ended with shot attempts by midfielder<b> Heather O’Reilly</b> and forward <b>Tasha Kai</b>.<br />
Sky Blue FC came out of half time starting a new front line with <b>Rosana</b> and <b>Jessica Landstrom</b> who entered the game for Kai and <b>Carli Lloyd</b>. With the new attacking duo adding more pressure to the Pride's back line.<b style="color: #0b5394;">Sky Blue</b> got back into the game to tie it up on 49 minutes. Rosana crossed a ball to the center of the field, where Landstrom put a touch on the feed. With the ball trickling towards the end line, Kalmari stepped onto the scene to strike the ball off the far post and into the net.<br />
The <b style="color: #7f6000;">Pride</b> answered back in the 75th minute with Sinclair's second goal. <b>Kelley O'Hara</b>-who had a good game- played a ball into space for a running on Sinclair who chipped Sky Blue FC goalkeeper, <b>Karen Bardsley</b>, to put the Pride ahead.In the 82nd minute, Marta finished it off with scoreing her first goal as a member of FC Gold Pride after receiving a pass from O'Hara-her 2nd assist of the game- and struck a shot into the upper corner of the goal past a diving Bardsley.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Lineups</b><br />
<b>FC Gold Pride:<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">Nicole Barnhart;Ali Riley, Rachel Buehler <b>(C)</b>; Candace Chapman; Kristen Graczyk(Kandace Wilson 79); Becky Edwards; Carrie Dew; Camille Abily (Kiki Bosio 72);Marta, Kelley O'Hara; Christine Sinclair (Tiffany Milbrett 85)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> <b>NJ Sky Blue FC: </b>Karen Bardsley; Keeley Dowling(Kiersten Dallstream 82); Daphne Koster; Brittany Taylor; Danielle Johnson; Heather O'Reilly; Carli Loyd (Jessica Landstrom 45);Yael Averbuch; Kacey White<b>(C)</b>; Laura Kilmari; Tasha Kai (Rosana 46)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Albertin Montoya -FC Gold Pride Head Coach</b></span><br />
<div style="color: #7f6000;">"I was thrilled to see the stands filled the way they were.I think we did our job and put a show on for our fans and hopefully they'll want to come back to see more goals and good soccer because this team is has the quality to do so."</div><div style="color: #7f6000;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #7f6000;"><br />
</div> FC Gold Pride's post game interviews in <a href="http://ow.ly/1zXwv" style="color: blue;">AUDIO</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<object height="364" width="445"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/iylV1S7_5t8&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/iylV1S7_5t8&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="445" height="364"></embed></object><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJCRn0WDiWDjosfHvqFHqbq0WOIVfpwQtYmgjBzJ7ltz2NtmDYhqPOXBa3P-Q1W40CfrTaFN4iSvitRXn795eByHgracHWGzDcBeZIY_-eunuHoYLFGfS8y968dPIlQ74Paun3mrfpNk/s1600/casey-nogueira.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJCRn0WDiWDjosfHvqFHqbq0WOIVfpwQtYmgjBzJ7ltz2NtmDYhqPOXBa3P-Q1W40CfrTaFN4iSvitRXn795eByHgracHWGzDcBeZIY_-eunuHoYLFGfS8y968dPIlQ74Paun3mrfpNk/s320/casey-nogueira.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<b>Chicago Red Stars v Saint Louis Athletica Sat April 17th </b><br />
<br />
<br />
The<b style="color: red;"> Chicago Red Stars </b>in front of over 5000 fans held league leaders <b style="color: #274e13;">Saint Louis Athletica</b> to a <b>1-1 </b>draw at Toyota Park, Chicago. Rookie <b>Casey Noguiera</b> with a fantastic strike leveled the game after <b>Lori Chalupny</b> put Athletica in front<b>. </b><br />
<b style="color: #274e13;">St. Louis Athletica</b> dominated the first half with captain Chalupny scoring in the 3rd minute of the game,pouncing onto a loose ball giving the visitors an edge they used through the rest of the first half.<br />
The <b style="color: red;">Red Stars</b> went on the attack in the second half. In the 58th minute, a Red Star player put a shot over Solo that hit the crossbar and bounced straight down. The Red Stars stayed on the attack and then Red Stars midfielder <b>Katie Chapman</b> sent the ball from right to left to Nogueira, who took one dribble toward the middle to free space then fired the ball into the upper right corner.<br />
Much of the rest of the second half was played in the midfield, but the Red Stars went on the attack again in the final five minutes and Nogueira had a nearly identical shot opportunity in the final couple of minutes but sent it high.<br />
For the game,<b> Hope Solo</b> had six saves for Athletica and <b>Jillian Loyden</b> made a pair of saves and batted away several other potential Saint Louis scoring opportunities <br />
<br />
<b>Lineups:</b><br />
<b>Chicago Red Stars</b>: Jillian Loyden (GK), Marian Dalmy, Kate Markgraf<b>(C)</b>, Ifeoma Dieke, Whitney Engen, Kosovare Asllani, Kate Chapman, Brittany Klein (Formiga, 70), Julliane Sitch (Karen Carney, 65), Ella Masar (Casey Nogueira, 46), Cristiane.<br />
<b>Saint Louis Athletica: Hope </b>Solo (GK), Elaine (Nikki Cross 30), Kendall Fletcher, Tina Ellertson, Elise Weber, Carolyn Blank, Lori Chalupny<b>(C)</b>, Shannon Boxx, Aya Miyama (Madelaine Edlund 67), Tina DiMartino, Eniola Aluko (Lindsey Tarpley 77).<br />
<br />
<b>Red Stars midfielder Casey Nogueira:</b> <br />
<i>On her second potential scoring chance:</i><span style="color: red;"> "That was a sitter. I should have just placed it, and I blasted it; it went right over."</span><br />
<div style="color: red;">"It was pretty awesome. The field is amazing and we had a bunch of people there and you could hear them the whole time and it was an enjoyable first home match for me."</div><br />
<br />
<b>Athletica goalkeeper Hope Solo:</b> <br />
<span style="color: #274e13;">"They came at us with numbers. They threw everything at us. At times it looked like they had a far aggressive back line. And it was hard to control. I think our best defense against them was moving the ball on the attack."</span><br />
<div style="color: #274e13;">"I saw Casey Nogueira and I knew exactly what she was going to do. Because that's her shot. On the national team, that's her shot. She's better than anyone I know at that kind of bent ball far post. I saw early enough that she was going to do it. I wish I would have kept cheating."</div><div style="color: #274e13;"><br />
</div><object height="364" width="445"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/XiCDcg_q0sU&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/XiCDcg_q0sU&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="445" height="364"></embed></object><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKMK1NdWHzx0boXOIvr_C0iKeMT4_0zW_zoKrbQDij8J3z4rUeGVQ4MGzyP_J_mujb4Bv-EmmWxyhDX2uFd7n0kS6PybSoVZKPqQakfhOcH9jTC-5-ffd5oy1i50gvD_6dRvVeZv5x_o/s1600/ramona+dribble.ashx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKMK1NdWHzx0boXOIvr_C0iKeMT4_0zW_zoKrbQDij8J3z4rUeGVQ4MGzyP_J_mujb4Bv-EmmWxyhDX2uFd7n0kS6PybSoVZKPqQakfhOcH9jTC-5-ffd5oy1i50gvD_6dRvVeZv5x_o/s320/ramona+dribble.ashx.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<b>Washington Freedom v Atlanta Beat Sun April 18th </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<b style="color: #660000;"> Washington Freedom</b> posted their first victory of the 2010 season, defeating expansion team <b style="color: #990000;">Atlanta Beat</b> <b>3-1</b> in the first meeting between the two teams. Freedom forward <b>Abby Wambach</b>, posted one goal and two assists to help Freedom clinch the win Sunday night.<b>Ramona Bachmann </b>goal was 1st for Atlanta in WPS. <br />
Play went back and forth in the first half with Atlanta maintaining good possession and chances by Beat midfielder Lauren Sesslemann in the fourth minute, Johanna Rasmussen in the eighth, and Tobin Heath in the 11th.<br />
The <b style="color: #660000;">Freedom</b> took the lead late in the first half with a goal in the 41st minute scored by Wambach with an assist by <b>Sonia Bompastor</b>. Bompastor took a free kick for Freedom, sending a dangerous ball in front of the Atlanta goal, where Wambach was waiting to tap the opening goal past the Beat goalkeeper <b>Allison Whitworth.</b><br />
At the start of second half, <b style="color: #990000;">Atlanta’s</b> <b>Mami Yamaguchi</b> played a through ball into Bachmann in the 47th minute. Bachmann ran in behind the Freedom defense to score the Beat’s first goal in WPS history.<br />
Nearly three minutes after Bachmann’s finish, a Washington Freedom serve came in from right midfield. Wambach laid it off to <b>Homare Sawa</b> who shot from the top of the box and put the Freedom up 2-1 in the 50th minute. <b>Christie Welsh</b> scored the game’s final goal in the 89th contributing to the 3-1 result.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Lineups:</b><br />
<b>Washington Freedom</b>: Erin McLeod; Rebecca Moros; Cat Whitehill<b>(C)</b>; Nikki Marshall; Sonia Bompastor;Allie Long (Sarah Huffman 59);Homare Sawa; Lene Mykjaland (Jill Gillbeau 81);Becky Sauerbrunn;Lisa DeVanna (Chrstie Welsh 64);Abby Wambach.<br />
<b>Atlanta Beat:</b>Alison Whitworth, Lauren Sesselmann(Sophia Mundy 88), Kia McNeill, Leigh-Ann Robinson, Stacey Bishop, McCall Zerboni(Monica Ocampo 67), Angie Kerr<b>(C)</b>(Amanda Cinalli 67), Mami Yamaguchi, Johanna Rasmussen, Tobin Heath, Ramona Bachmann<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Freedom striker Abby Wambach</b><br />
<div style="color: #660000;">“Our first goal gave us confidence going into halftime and that was important for us,” </div><br />
<b>Beat midfielder Tobin Heath</b><br />
<div style="color: #990000;">"Abby and Cat and a number of their players are very solid. I have great respect for them. Competing against them at this level is awesome.I've been on a number of teams that win, so I bring that edge. I have the experience which helps with the development of our players, and try and carry the rhythm out there. I just try to be productive on the offensive end and give my team a spark when we need it. This is only our second game so we are still trying to figure things out, but we have great strengths on the attacking end. We have different personalities, so we are just trying to get those personalities to mesh. The hardest thing when you score is that first five minutes after, not allowing another one and we had a lapse, and they had that goal right after ours took. My hat goes off to them. They definitely took the wind out of our sails a little bit." <b> </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<b><object height="364" width="445"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/n741Eax1KR4&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/n741Eax1KR4&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="445" height="364"></embed></object> </b></div><div style="color: #990000;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKMK1NdWHzx0boXOIvr_C0iKeMT4_0zW_zoKrbQDij8J3z4rUeGVQ4MGzyP_J_mujb4Bv-EmmWxyhDX2uFd7n0kS6PybSoVZKPqQakfhOcH9jTC-5-ffd5oy1i50gvD_6dRvVeZv5x_o/s1600/ramona+dribble.ashx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="color: #990000;"><b> </b> </div><div style="color: #990000;"><br />
</div>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-47523885747954292252010-04-17T13:38:00.000-07:002010-04-19T08:52:35.720-07:00WEEKEND PREVIEW 2 - SATURDAY/SUNDAY 17th/18th April 2010<div class="teamImgWrapper"><div class="homeWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/chicago"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/chi.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div><div class="vsWrapper"><div class="content">VS</div></div><div class="awayWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/stlouis"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/stl.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="teamNameWrapper"> <b> Sat April 17th 2010 8pm ET/ 1am GMT - Live webcast</b></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"><b style="color: #274e13;">Saint Louis Athletica</b> travel to Toyota Park to face <b style="color: red;">Chicago Red Stars</b> on a high after their dismantle of FC Gold Pride<b>. </b>The game will be streamed live through the Chicago Red Stars website, www.chicagoredstars.com. </div><div class="teamNameWrapper">Athletica have gotten the better of Chicago so far with 2 wins to Chicago's 1.A few players could see themselves playing against their former club. Chicago's new keeper <b>Jillian Loyden</b> was backup to <b>Hope Solo</b> but now she very much the number one at Toyota Park. <b>Lindsay Tarpley</b> was also part of that deal sending her in the opposite direction to Saint Louis. Tarpley is still coming back from her ACL injury but is training, if she is there she will be on the bench. </div><div class="teamNameWrapper">Both teams are much improved from last season and both played well in their opening matches last weekend. Chicago at times had good play and accounted themselves well against Sky Blue but they need to be more ruthless in the final 3rd. With players like <b>Cristiane</b> and <b>Kosovare Asllani</b> in the side their should be plenty of goalscoring opportunities. <b>Megan Rapinoe </b>still out through illness.</div><div class="teamNameWrapper">For Saint Louis it is more of the same. Most of their play will come from midfield, feeding the speedy forward in<b> Eniola Aluko.</b></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"><b> Prediction - Away win 2-1 Saint Louis. Chicago will get their goal but Saint Louis will be too strong. Aluko to score.</b></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"></div><br />
<div class="teamImgWrapper"><div class="homeWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/bayarea"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/bay.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div><div class="vsWrapper"><div class="content">VS</div></div><div class="awayWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/ny"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/nj.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"> <b> Sat April 17th 2010 10pm ET</b></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"></div>Coming off a disappointing 2-0 loss against the Saint Louis Athletica in their first game of the 2010 season, the <b style="color: #7f6000;">FC Gold Pride</b> returns home to the Bay Area and looks to regroup in preparation for this weekend's showdown with<b style="color: #0b5394;"> Sky Blue FC.</b><br />
Sky Blue FC opened up the 2010 WPS season with a 1-0 victory over the Chicago Red Stars last Sunday, and look to continue the defense of their title with back-to-back wins.<b>Natasha Kai</b> will be dangerous in attack and the defence is looking like being one of the best in the league. They will be without LB <b>Meghan Schnur</b> who is out with a knee knock. <b>Christie Rampone</b> and <b>Anita Asante</b> still not available.<br />
Saturday's Home Opener will mark the Pride's first time playing in front of Bay Area fans at Castro Valley High School Athletic Stadium, after moving their home stadium and front offices during the 2010 offseason.The fans want a win. Against Saint Louis, Coach Montoya played <b>Marta</b> in midfield with <b>Tiffany Millbrett, Kelly O'Hara</b> and<b> Christine Sinclair</b> up front. This left the Pride's midfield exposed. Marta needs to be closer to the goal to take any chances that fall to the Pride. And <b>Camille Abilly</b> and <b>Solveig Gulbrandsen </b>need more help in midfield especially against the well oiled midfield of Sky Blue with has <b>Yael Averbuch </b>and <b>Carli Lloyd </b>patrolling the middle and <b>Heather O'Reilly </b>and <b>Kacey White</b> coming in from the flanks. <br />
<br />
<b>Prediction - This is tough. It will come down to who scores first. 1-0 away win Sky Blue. Confidence is an extra man. Sky Blue have bags of it.</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="teamImgWrapper"> <div class="homeWrapper"> <div class="content"> <a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/boston"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/bos.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div><div class="vsWrapper"> <div class="content">VS</div></div><div class="awayWrapper"> <div class="content"> <a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/philadelphia"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/phi.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div></div><br />
<div class="teamNameWrapper"><b> Sun April 18th 2010 6pm ET/ 11pm GMT Live FSC</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
The <b style="color: #444444;">Philadelphia Independence</b> is looking to capture its first win of the season at Harvard Stadium on Sunday night's televised game, taking on the <b style="color: blue;">Boston Breakers</b> in their second game of the season.Boston look to maintain their form by getting another win. Tonight's game will be a sort of reunion for <b>Heather Mitts</b> and <b>Amy Rodriguez</b> who previously played for Boston last season. Mitts will be playing her first game of the season after missing last weekend through injury and the Independence also welcome back defender <b>Alison Falk</b> from suspension. Boston are missing the Brazilian <b>Fabiana</b> through injury. <b>Kelly Smith</b> and <b>Lauren Cheney</b> both should start up front continuing their blossoming partnership.<br />
Expect a tight game.<br />
<br />
<b>Prediction - Home win Boston. 1-0 </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="teamImgWrapper"> <div class="homeWrapper"> <div class="content"> <a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/dc"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/wsh.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div><div class="vsWrapper"> <div class="content">VS</div></div><div class="awayWrapper"> <div class="content"> <a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/atlanta"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/atl.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div></div></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"><br />
<b> Sun April 18th 2010 7pm ET</b><br />
<b> </b><br />
Week two of WPS is underway as <b style="color: #660000;">Washington Freedom</b> hosts <b style="color: #660000;">Atlanta Beat</b>, tonight, at the Maryland SoccerPlex in the first meeting between the two teams. 2010 is the inaugural WPS season for the Beat. Both teams are looking to post their first wins of the 2010 season, after Atlanta opened the season with a scoreless tie against fellow 2010 WPS expansion team, Philadelphia Independence and Freedom fell 2-1 against Boston Breakers in the home opener. Freedom will look to improve the defensive line, as well as continue working on the fundamentals of attacking and possessions in hopes of converting more chances in the box to goals. Both teams’ rosters are heavy with international players as well as plenty national talent, setting the stage for an exciting first meeting between Washington Freedom and Atlanta Beat.<br />
The visitors should welcome back swiss striker <b>Ramona Bachmann </b>who missed the first game due to illness.<br />
A tough match for both teams. It will be a battle especially between <b>Abby Wambach</b> and <b>Kia McNeil</b>.<br />
<br />
<b>Prediction - Home Win Washington 2-1</b></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="teamNameWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="teamNameWrapper"></div><div class="teamNameWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="teamNameWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="teamNameWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="teamNameWrapper"><br />
</div>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-65341754482281940222010-04-17T12:51:00.000-07:002010-04-17T12:52:33.804-07:00THE WEEK THAT WAS - WPS WEEK ENDING 16/04/10<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqTcpmxIUe6b-D20jLiTmEnHXT0AkrEF4stvsDGP9iGqtfoQQFlPY_XnpxBNZASuD3AZoA75RgYwqlQS0B1IG_FxUij2M2BGoHePVtUN4yafyJsTSBGaGdx_vLg9L8ejvmds6nRQa6-uA/s1600/bardsley_save.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmuEEa76ioAeGchuwGOJSqSRGav1JRAqyOZrl80wXYLgw1uXPIrPqGh7wmFHlll4gXVMKkjPDOMjt_RoBWMlfnRRibETxdZsVQShtM1OXL7if9IG9in2Qt67_paRZy5ZSzetaZ-7P6qQ4/s1600/smith+scores.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqTcpmxIUe6b-D20jLiTmEnHXT0AkrEF4stvsDGP9iGqtfoQQFlPY_XnpxBNZASuD3AZoA75RgYwqlQS0B1IG_FxUij2M2BGoHePVtUN4yafyJsTSBGaGdx_vLg9L8ejvmds6nRQa6-uA/s1600/bardsley_save.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><br />
<b>The week that was!</b><br />
<br />
WPS got started last weekend with all 8 teams taking to the field. <b style="color: #274e13;">Saint Louis Athletica</b> find themselves at the top of the table with a <b>2-0</b> win against <b style="color: #7f6000;">FC Gold Pride</b> on Sunday at The Anheuser-Busch Soccer Park,Missouri. <b>Eniola Aluko</b> scoring on 40 mins and 62 mins ,both assists from <b>Shannon Boxx</b>.<br />
The win was a surprising result to some as FC Gold Pride had new signings <b>Marta </b>and <b>Camille Abily</b> in the lineup. But the Athletica’s dominant midfield play set them up for a win.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupwDJ4Bfz7JChEX38VtujnLuzZusTUIOfBN_NYN0iq_23jr8y9NepLkFAx2zPg8BhXRO97Ao0K8pSFVV-vrVS3QzaffxrDhr6J4ScXAxoOkXME5ZiDtPsgw8mLYI-yGQYYsjt4Fi1VOk/s1600/long_cheney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiupwDJ4Bfz7JChEX38VtujnLuzZusTUIOfBN_NYN0iq_23jr8y9NepLkFAx2zPg8BhXRO97Ao0K8pSFVV-vrVS3QzaffxrDhr6J4ScXAxoOkXME5ZiDtPsgw8mLYI-yGQYYsjt4Fi1VOk/s320/long_cheney.jpg" /></a></div>The<span style="color: blue;"> </span><b style="color: blue;">Boston Breakers</b> roll into 2nd place in the league with a <b>2-1</b> win away to <b style="color: #660000;">Washington Freedom</b>. Rookie <b>Lauren Cheney</b> scoring in the 7th minute from a corner by <b>Kristine Lilly</b> and <b>Kelly Smith</b> continuing her open day scoring streak with a goal on 20 mins from a pass by <b>Stephanie Cox</b>. The Freedom managed to pull one back in the dying minutes at The Maryland SoccerPlex with a great shot from<b> Allie Long</b> in the 87th minute. Washington could not find a way to get the equalizer and Boston held on for the win.<br />
The televised Sunday game from Fox Soccer Channel was for the defending champions <b style="color: #0b5394;">NJ Sky Blue FC</b> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV2IpMYvDq_KuI5GqsFWdb1CPk3_Md01sMqTM3dKiLHTkOTvApJ3PWYiLxneDzP-tGONvv1Hz559O5KSCSM8b1aveLvfcBMhX6PjrHlSiX0X5b489xnYnyLuaL0omiaBTn_prOoGR1ql0/s1600/natasha-kai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV2IpMYvDq_KuI5GqsFWdb1CPk3_Md01sMqTM3dKiLHTkOTvApJ3PWYiLxneDzP-tGONvv1Hz559O5KSCSM8b1aveLvfcBMhX6PjrHlSiX0X5b489xnYnyLuaL0omiaBTn_prOoGR1ql0/s320/natasha-kai.jpg" /></a></div>against<b style="color: red;"> Chicago Red Stars</b> at Yurcak Field , NJ. Over 4400 fans came out to see Sky Blue hold on for the <b>1-0 </b>win. <b>Natasha Kai </b>scored the lone goal in the 7th minute from a defence splitting pass by <b>Heather O’Reilly</b>. The Red Stars put up a spirited fight back in the 2nd half but couldn’t convert any of their chances. The game between the expansions teams ended in a stalemate at John A Farrell Stadium,PA, in front of the weekends biggest crowd of over 6000. The <b style="color: #990000;">Atlanta Beat</b> and <b style="color: #444444;">Philadelphia Independence</b> both created many chances the best falling in the dying seconds to <b>Amy Rodriguez</b> who was 1v1 in on the keeper but a good save by <b>Allison Whitworth</b> kept the game a tie<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Sky Blue FC v Chicago Red Stars</b><br />
<object height="364" width="445"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/uJ9hMznlWeU&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/uJ9hMznlWeU&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="445" height="364"></embed></object><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Saint Louis Athletica v FC Gold Pride</b><br />
<object height="364" width="445"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cwPsqilhK-A&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cwPsqilhK-A&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="445" height="364"></embed></object><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Philadelphia Independence v Atlanta Beat </b><br />
<object height="364" width="445"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/L2dor1NFIfo&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/L2dor1NFIfo&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="445" height="364"></embed></object><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Washington Freedom v Boston Breakers </b><br />
<object height="360" width="580"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/m504oOCfWMg&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/m504oOCfWMg&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="580" height="360"></embed></object><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTeVj_SrV2xLEzp_YZvim6YAnDxTrxlX3Ep2esT8d9c5aTAmbuxMBFC7XJm5GT0h3_tKOZb_bFbAnhgP9CLwGiMi6lUSMsTUUz2q5IZBaRt-h0-OF4tEQS8pUv7P8IO7oT4RSTTTwN6H8/s1600/Aluko-Celebrates.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTeVj_SrV2xLEzp_YZvim6YAnDxTrxlX3Ep2esT8d9c5aTAmbuxMBFC7XJm5GT0h3_tKOZb_bFbAnhgP9CLwGiMi6lUSMsTUUz2q5IZBaRt-h0-OF4tEQS8pUv7P8IO7oT4RSTTTwN6H8/s320/Aluko-Celebrates.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Eniola Aluko - Player of the Week. </b><br />
<br />
Congratulations to <b style="color: #274e13;">Saint Louis Athletica</b> forward <b>Eniola Aluko</b> who has been named the first WPS Player of the Week in 2010 after scoring both goals in Athletica’s 2-0 win on Sunday over <b style="color: #7f6000;">FC Gold Pride<span style="color: black;">.</span></b> This is the second time Aluko has won the honor. She was Player of the Week in Week 12 of WPS’s inaugural season. No surprises to see her already leading the goal scoring charts.<br />
<span style="color: #7f6000;">"I am delighted to get the first player of the week accolade of 2010,” <span style="color: black;">said Aluko upon being informed of the award.</span> “I am so pleased that I was able to contribute to what was a great team performance against FC Gold Pride at the weekend. I aim to score more goals than last season, so this will give me confidence to keep scoring." </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtvspaRcOw0iSXMfhZEScAh8Ij09ei8OYfQSEx7WgmeyUg_NpTRRgwtcumUmP8qTnhl6J1YSEEsyGfIhdgVLMNu8Mu4VfTa2C2in0c7MbTywQ47RDkUeW3dOGJYQFugRjigGy6Wrl_Hc/s1600/british.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtvspaRcOw0iSXMfhZEScAh8Ij09ei8OYfQSEx7WgmeyUg_NpTRRgwtcumUmP8qTnhl6J1YSEEsyGfIhdgVLMNu8Mu4VfTa2C2in0c7MbTywQ47RDkUeW3dOGJYQFugRjigGy6Wrl_Hc/s320/british.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span style="color: #7f6000;"><b style="color: blue;"> BRIT WATCH</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmuEEa76ioAeGchuwGOJSqSRGav1JRAqyOZrl80wXYLgw1uXPIrPqGh7wmFHlll4gXVMKkjPDOMjt_RoBWMlfnRRibETxdZsVQShtM1OXL7if9IG9in2Qt67_paRZy5ZSzetaZ-7P6qQ4/s1600/smith+scores.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmuEEa76ioAeGchuwGOJSqSRGav1JRAqyOZrl80wXYLgw1uXPIrPqGh7wmFHlll4gXVMKkjPDOMjt_RoBWMlfnRRibETxdZsVQShtM1OXL7if9IG9in2Qt67_paRZy5ZSzetaZ-7P6qQ4/s320/smith+scores.jpg" /></a></div><b>Eniola Aluko</b> tops the Brits with her 2 goals all round play against Gold Pride edging out<b> Kelly Smith </b>who scored once again on opening day, this time her goal was enough to ensure a Breakers win. Smith was substituted out in the 68th minute as a precautionary. Lets hope the knee holds up. <b>Alex Scott</b> put in a fine performance in the back limiting the Freedom attack to go through the middle. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqTcpmxIUe6b-D20jLiTmEnHXT0AkrEF4stvsDGP9iGqtfoQQFlPY_XnpxBNZASuD3AZoA75RgYwqlQS0B1IG_FxUij2M2BGoHePVtUN4yafyJsTSBGaGdx_vLg9L8ejvmds6nRQa6-uA/s1600/bardsley_save.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqTcpmxIUe6b-D20jLiTmEnHXT0AkrEF4stvsDGP9iGqtfoQQFlPY_XnpxBNZASuD3AZoA75RgYwqlQS0B1IG_FxUij2M2BGoHePVtUN4yafyJsTSBGaGdx_vLg9L8ejvmds6nRQa6-uA/s320/bardsley_save.jpg" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmuEEa76ioAeGchuwGOJSqSRGav1JRAqyOZrl80wXYLgw1uXPIrPqGh7wmFHlll4gXVMKkjPDOMjt_RoBWMlfnRRibETxdZsVQShtM1OXL7if9IG9in2Qt67_paRZy5ZSzetaZ-7P6qQ4/s1600/smith+scores.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div>Sky Blue goalkeeper <b>Karen Bardsley</b> got a rare start due to the injury of <b>Jenni Branam</b>. Bardsley got her clean sheet with a strong, commanding performance. Lucky her collision with <b>Karen Carney</b> was not a PK. Scottish international <b>Ifeoma Dieke</b> was back in the starting lineup partnering US star <b>Kate Markgraf</b>. She let Kai through for the goal in the 7th minute but was untroubled for the rest of the game as Chicago had most of the game. English midfielder <b>Kate Chapman </b>also made her first start for the Red Stars. A lot of the game bypassed Chapman in the 1st half as she looked to adjust to the speed of play of the WPS. In the 2nd half she saw more of the ball and got forward on a few occasions as Chicago were pressing for the equalizer. <b>Karen Carney </b>came on in the 2nd half back from knee surgery and was immediately creating chances. Had a good shout for a penalty when she looked to be brought down in the box by Bardsley. Still not match fit, but great to see her back nad in the thick of the action.<br />
Ex-Chelsea player <b>Lianne Sanderson</b> was in from the start for Philadelphia Independence partnering US star <b>Amy Rodriguez</b>. Sanderson was tidy and showed of her close ball control linking up well with Rodriguez, especially at the end when her control of the ball and through ball found Rodriguez in on goal.<br />
<b>Anita Asante</b> is still rehabbing her knee. Training with the team and looks to a June comeback.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #7f6000;"><b style="color: black;"> Kelly Smith on Boston's win against Washington.</b></span><br />
<object height="360" width="580"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/yPo44j-hWi8&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/yPo44j-hWi8&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="580" height="360"></embed></object><span style="color: #7f6000;"><b style="color: black;"> </b></span>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-31732438201735034392010-04-10T12:43:00.000-07:002010-04-10T12:45:15.234-07:00WEEKEND PREVIEW - SUNDAY 11th APRIL 2010<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="teamImgWrapper"><div class="homeWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/stlouis"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/stl.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div><div class="vsWrapper"><div class="content">VS </div><div class="content"><br />
</div></div><div class="awayWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/bayarea"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/bay.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div></div><br />
<b> </b><br />
<br />
<b> Sun April 11th 2010 4 pm ET</b><br />
<br />
This match looks on paper to be the most exciting player wise. <b>Marta</b>, <b>Camille Abily</b>, <b>Shannon Boxx</b> and <b>Aya Miyama</b> are all from the disbanded <b>Los Angeles Sol</b> and who all were so dominant for them now play on opposite sides of the pitch. <br />
<br />
<b style="color: #274e13;">Saint Louis Athletica</b> come back with 9 players from last year but they have added experience during the off season. As well as Boxx and Miyama they also added <b>Lindsey Tarpley</b> from the Chicago Red Stars, former Gold Pride midfielder <b>Tina DiMartino</b> and Brazilian <b>Elaine </b>and Swedish striker <b>Madelaine Edlund</b> from Umea IK.<br />
Elaine could slip into defence and Edlund should provide a scoring partnership with Athletica top striker <b>Eniola Aluko</b>. Captain <b>Lori Chalupny</b> has been plagued by symptoms from concussions and may be a question mark. <b>Daniela</b> who recently resigned is still out injured. GK <b>Hope Solo</b> will have to contend with a new defence in front of her.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: #7f6000;">FC Gold Pride</b> look for another win again to start their season. Coach Montoya likes to play like Barcelona. He may get that wish with Marta and Abily in the ranks. Offensively the Pride have many options with <b>Christine Sinclair</b> for height and power and college #3 pick <b>Kelly O’Hara</b> with her 1 v 1 abilities joining Marta, but it will be in midfield and defence where they need to improve the most. Both area were very soft last season. To contend for the championship the likes of new team captain <b>Rachel Buehler</b> and Norwegian midfielder <b>Sloveig Gulbrandsen</b> need to have a massive impact on the team.<br />
<br />
The game will be a battle of the midfield. What midfield will come out on top and dominate the game? The one that does, their team will win the game.<br />
<br />
<b>Prediction - Home win for Saint Louis, just!</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="stadium"></div><div class="topColWrapper"><div class="homeWrapper"><br />
</div><div class="awayWrapper"><br />
</div></div><div class="teamImgWrapper"><div class="homeWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/philadelphia"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/phi.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div><div class="vsWrapper"><div class="content">VS</div></div><div class="awayWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/atlanta"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/atl.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div></div> <b> Sun April 11th 2010 6pm ET</b><br />
<br />
The two new expansion teams face off for their first match. Who made up this schedule? Both cities have a deep history in women’s soccer and both will have incredible support from the fans of the cities.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: #666666;">Philadelphia</b> have gone with experience for their first season. Most of their roster consists of players that have already played last year on other WPS teams or experienced internationals. In defense they have no1 GK <b>Karina LeBlanc </b>and top defenders <b>Alison Falk</b> and <b>Heather Mitts</b>. They have a WPS champion in <b>Jennifer Buczkowski</b> in the ranks, she having played a major part for Sky Blue in the playoffs. Midfield consist of Swedish captain <b>Caroline Seger</b> and <b>Lori Lindsay</b> who had a good first season with the Freedom. Up top England’s <b>Lianne Sanderson</b> is out to prove she is England’s no1 and <b>Amy Rodriguez</b> is looking to make a better impact than she did in Boston.<br />
If Philly get to gel early they could be a very workmanlike team that will be difficult to beat and no team would like to play them.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: #990000;">Atlanta</b> by contrast have gone for a very youthful team. Full of impact players that like to run with the ball and attack. The key to the Beat will be in midfield. They picked up good professional steady players in the offseason such as <b>Angie Kerr</b> and <b>Amanda Cinalli</b> from Saint Louis. No1 draft pick <b>Tobin Heath</b> will bring the fans in with her skills and 1v1 tricks and the likes of <b>McCall Zerboni</b> and <b>Mami Yamaguchi</b> can offer width and another attacking presence. If the midfield can get the ball to the forwards Atlanta may just be our favorite team to watch.<br />
In the forward positions a clutch of internationals hold the key. Among them, young upstart <b>Ramona Bachmann</b>, who comes to Atlanta with a big reputation and an abundance of talent . If given the chances and the service she will score goals. A natural goalscorer she is. <br />
<br />
Expect Atlanta to come out fast with many attacking opportunities. Philly may stem the flow of the attacks and sneak one in. It will be interesting however with the contrast in styles.<br />
<br />
<b>Prediction - Home win. Philadelphia to overpower, eventually.</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="teamImgWrapper"><div class="homeWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/ny"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/nj.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div><div class="vsWrapper"><div class="content">VS</div></div><div class="awayWrapper"><div class="content"><a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/chicago"><img alt="" height="57" src="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/wps/images/stats_teamicons/chi.gif" width="57" /></a> </div></div></div> <b>Sun April 11th 2010 6pm ET Live Fox Soccer Channel /Webcast</b><br />
<br />
<br />
The first televised game opens with the defending WPS champions at home. A thrilling match should occur as both teams have a point to prove. Sky Blue will be looking to show people that their win was not a undeserved or a fluke and the Red Stars need to show they can live up to the talent on the paper. Games are not played on paper.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: #3d85c6;">Sky Blue</b> come into the new season with yet another coach in Pauliina Miettinen from Finland. That’s how many now? What hasn’t changed is that many of the core players from last season are back. They have also added quality players in the offseason to push again for the playoffs. The Dutch captain <b>Daphne Koster </b>will slot into the back and star strikers <b>Jessica Landstrom </b>and<b> Laura Kalmari </b>will add more attacking presence that was missing for many games last season. They will join a fit again <b>Natasha Kai</b> in the hunt for goals. In midfield the core of the team remains with <b>Carli Lloyd</b> coming in from Chicago replacing <b>Collete McCallum</b> to provide the service.<br />
<br />
<b style="color: red;">Chicago </b>come in to the new season with a new mentality. Although they return with 9 players from last season, from the looks of it, it is an entirely new team. The team will still have the flair players of <b>Cristiane</b>, <b>Megan Rapinoe</b> and <b>Karen Carney</b> but they have added players with experience and steel to keep the squad ticking over. <b>Kate Markgraf</b> returns to organise the defence and probably the team. England’s midfielder <b>Katie Chapman</b> should provide a strong presence in midfield. Something that was not there last season. Up top Cristiane is fit and settled right from the start and Swedish starlet <b>Kosovare Asllani</b> and UNC star <b>Casey Noguiera</b> should provide a cutting edge.<br />
<br />
Going from games from last season between these two teams, the games will be hard fought.<br />
<br />
<b>Prediction - Home win. The crowd behind them Sky Blue will be to strong for an improved Red Stars team</b>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-30258549423008139862010-04-09T18:32:00.000-07:002010-04-10T12:46:28.640-07:00WEEKEND PREVIEW - SATURDAY 10th APRIL 2010<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TDZVVqM58nUl48kFvD46_BZhQbIqpXtT2qXGqNwhVRx37JYDZhHZLSTAhs5zdHLnn_NOFPS3XvBI0-F2zQKhzxBoFniekB27IfM0mGFO9bYq3uOr0a4GO-xaN7UdXhiofHfAX-vp2Kg/s1600/washingtonfree.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8TDZVVqM58nUl48kFvD46_BZhQbIqpXtT2qXGqNwhVRx37JYDZhHZLSTAhs5zdHLnn_NOFPS3XvBI0-F2zQKhzxBoFniekB27IfM0mGFO9bYq3uOr0a4GO-xaN7UdXhiofHfAX-vp2Kg/s320/washingtonfree.gif" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CZak_6781sV8z-xiWcAGeftrzGRaVCMFinkpi79POeMse4r32Y7X6GvtPaYWNrCh_2oGj_j6EGl5Y0DOMO9l90i60nIH_rliNMeV9zjZAl_Rd3zOU5Pq4ZtGwrcKamp-EpFS-QKPKdA/s1600/bostonbreakers.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CZak_6781sV8z-xiWcAGeftrzGRaVCMFinkpi79POeMse4r32Y7X6GvtPaYWNrCh_2oGj_j6EGl5Y0DOMO9l90i60nIH_rliNMeV9zjZAl_Rd3zOU5Pq4ZtGwrcKamp-EpFS-QKPKdA/s320/bostonbreakers.gif" /></a></div> <b>vs</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Sat April 10th 2010 7pm ET </b> <br />
Once again the <b style="color: #660000;">Washington Freedom</b> play in the opening game of the WPS Championship. This time versus the <b style="color: #0b5394;">Boston Breakers</b>. The Breakers again will be opening on the road.<br />
Both teams however will be looking for a different opening result. A win. Both teams lost their opening matches to <b>Los Angeles Sol</b> and <b><span style="color: #7f6000;">FC Gold Pride</span></b> respectively. <br />
Who wants it more?<br />
<br />
Washington return with the core of their squad -13 in all - with a few players added to shore up the defence and run the midfield. Look to a better defensive display from the Freedom as it’s looking likely that <b>Cat Whitehill</b>, <b>Sonia Bompastor </b>and college rookie <b>Nikki Marshall</b> are in the back. GK <b>Erin McLeod</b> starts from the start which is a big difference to last season. In midfield <b>Sarah Huffman</b> should return to give them a more attacking midfield push. Norwegian striker <b>Lene Mykjaland</b> may also start in midfield or off the main striker <b>Abby Wambach</b>. Wambach is also fully fit and is in form. What formation they play we will see but expect it to be fluid from 5 in midfield to 2 up front.<br />
<br />
Boston come into the match looking for goals. They have overloaded on attack minded players. College draft #2 pick <b>Lauren Cheney</b>, Spanish international <b>Laura Del Rio</b>, Australian <b>Sarah Walsh</b>, <b>Tiffany Weimer</b> add to returnees <b>Kelly Smith</b> and <b>Kristine Lilly</b>. Not hard to see where Coach DiCicco felt his team lacked last season. However with so many attacking players the system they play in and who fits where becomes important. In midfield <b>Leslie Osborne</b> should start and in defence they get a boost with <b>Stephanie Cox</b> from Los Angeles Sol slotting into the left back position vacated by <b>Heather Mitts</b>. Smith is back fit and looks to start up top.<br />
<br />
Will the game turn into Washington’s defence v Boston‘s attack? Hardly, but we will get the first glimpse of how each team sorts out their biggest problem from last year.<br />
<br />
<b>Prediction - Both teams could cancel each other out. A score draw</b>.GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-82704952599938087982010-04-08T16:03:00.000-07:002010-04-08T16:04:15.624-07:00" DEFEND YOUR TURF"<object width="445" height="364"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wqXveg0bkHI&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wqXveg0bkHI&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="445" height="364"></embed></object>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-39210275909946088972010-04-08T15:32:00.000-07:002010-04-08T15:52:33.835-07:00WPS FANTASY CHALLENGE 2010<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg340kd7em4xEXoygsFYwwHo-2XMcCWx2g7pc-tVtGyU1TsPF5lawd3G95kFuVqCZiiV52aWRCjJ8PWWIhOYuodf_2trIzeoPWPnwmSjoNndMQvKe8C2vaCnhW_uhyphenhyphenzo0poXCHTFzQMDJA/s1600/wpsfantasy.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg340kd7em4xEXoygsFYwwHo-2XMcCWx2g7pc-tVtGyU1TsPF5lawd3G95kFuVqCZiiV52aWRCjJ8PWWIhOYuodf_2trIzeoPWPnwmSjoNndMQvKe8C2vaCnhW_uhyphenhyphenzo0poXCHTFzQMDJA/s320/wpsfantasy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457902035807148674" border="0" /></a><br /><p> <strong><br /></strong></p><p><strong>WPS have launched their own fantasy football/soccer game this season.It is open to everyone although to win the prizes on offer you have to be a US resident but that shouldn't stop the participation of the game for us foreigners.</strong></p><p><strong>Check it out and sign up to support WPS and women's soccer and if anything else it's fun fun and more fun. You can even create your own leagues. Brit league anyone?</strong></p><p><strong><br /></strong></p><p style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><strong>How would you like to run your own WPS team? Here’s your opportunity.</strong> </p> <p>The WPS Fantasy Challenge has just launched and allows fans to test their knowledge of WPS players while competing in leagues against friends, family and fans for bragging rights. It is the first-ever Fantasy Game for women’s soccer. Great prizes – including PUMA gear and player-autographed items – are on the line for season-long winners, while weekly prizes will also be awarded. Fans must manage their roster to stay under the $10 million team budget, while seeking to maximize the points they accumulate each week based upon how their selected players perform in actual WPS games.</p><p><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">Learn more about the WPS Fantasy Challenge</span> <a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);" href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/Home/fantasy/fantasy-beginners-guide.aspx">HERE</a></p><p><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">Play the WPS Fantasy Challenge</span><a href="http://fantasy.womensprosoccer.com/"> <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);">HERE</span></a></p><p><a style="color: rgb(0, 51, 0); font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/Home/news/columnist/100408-read-fantasy-week-one">Week 1 Fantasy Picks preview </a><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-13814530161686727752010-04-07T06:46:00.000-07:002010-04-07T06:57:47.119-07:002010 WPS NEW FACESThis weekend the 2010 WPS Championship season begins and many new faces will seep into our hearts and minds. The new faces will consist of a mixture of internationals and collegiate players all out to prove their worth, to impress on their teams and the soccer fan.<br /><br />During 2009 there were a number internationals that increased their stature in the game and impressed fans. Boston Breakers English star <span style="font-weight: bold;">Alex Scott</span> and the French midfield pair of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Camille Abily</span> ,Los Angeles Sol and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sonia Bompastor</span> of Washington Freedom. To name just three who were relatively unknown outside of their country but had an excellent season making their way onto the WPS All Star team which was voted for by fellow players, fans and the media.<br />College players that made their mark and were vital to their teams and deservedly earned starting positions included the Los Angeles Sol rookie defence of Stanford’s <span style="font-weight: bold;">Allison Falk</span> and Notre Dame’s <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brittany Bock</span> and Santa Clara’s midfielder <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brittany Klein</span> all of them outgunning more experienced players in defence and midfield to shine brightly .<br /><br />So who will make their mark this season? Over the next few days till kick-off we will profile a few of the players new to WPS and the public, whom we hope will make a name for themselves, entertain fans and push women’s soccer that bit further forward.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Katie Chapman - Chicago Red Stars and England</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3sjjyiSXeBtn1pN4pFkkbCpnr8T8uNHD_CHQKapHW-acjd1Bca6jGpYBsm7b5WUSn9YixNCskoMpYZQSrm4kKafnGYR1_5h4aDI9WkHhrUIbie0R1cwmeq9TkQlSgrCVi1gQ5OhbIpzE/s1600/katie_chapmanarsenal.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 157px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3sjjyiSXeBtn1pN4pFkkbCpnr8T8uNHD_CHQKapHW-acjd1Bca6jGpYBsm7b5WUSn9YixNCskoMpYZQSrm4kKafnGYR1_5h4aDI9WkHhrUIbie0R1cwmeq9TkQlSgrCVi1gQ5OhbIpzE/s320/katie_chapmanarsenal.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457392413322204018" border="0" /></a><br />Chapman a strong , committed and tough tackling midfielder, makes her way to <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Chicago Red Stars</span> via Millwall, Fulham, Charlton and Arsenal. A member of Arsenal’s 2007 quadruple winning squad , Chapman was the engine in midfield that propelled the team to a historic season which ended with them claiming the European Cup against a Umea side which included someone called <span style="font-weight: bold;">Marta</span>.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-2YbUPq26O45kof2OaMYH8B9b7Pl8LilQmp0UZv9FIP8QobU6kL8pVwueRXxjH32FRQOSuS7n9dIFTBihL7kwq5di1JWHggy9wDMuNhmj5lYlotee86AX4JqI_21Sj86dQ-mGQco2hY/s1600/katie_chapman.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 310px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-2YbUPq26O45kof2OaMYH8B9b7Pl8LilQmp0UZv9FIP8QobU6kL8pVwueRXxjH32FRQOSuS7n9dIFTBihL7kwq5di1JWHggy9wDMuNhmj5lYlotee86AX4JqI_21Sj86dQ-mGQco2hY/s320/katie_chapman.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457392656457343570" border="0" /></a><br />A senior member of the England team with 76 caps and 8 goals having competed in the 2001,2005 and 2009 European Championships and 2007 Women’s World Cup. England’s best player at Euro 2009. So say all of us here at womans soccer insider.<br />Chapman should bring heart , experience and a bit of steel to Chicago’s midfield.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ali Riley - FC Gold Pride</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuDEOyVNQkHNaD9rX528Asdo3OBO0tz4bsNF1rBZb63H0LT7RNQXpeq4REvbCZEvioJaZxn29ZbRjLnSdq55-NRlRaU_vIuyBI1RlOpmLadI3JJNyinfECsiqB-mr_0iEKh_Vi98NgEIw/s1600/ali_riley.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuDEOyVNQkHNaD9rX528Asdo3OBO0tz4bsNF1rBZb63H0LT7RNQXpeq4REvbCZEvioJaZxn29ZbRjLnSdq55-NRlRaU_vIuyBI1RlOpmLadI3JJNyinfECsiqB-mr_0iEKh_Vi98NgEIw/s320/ali_riley.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457393186148955314" border="0" /></a><br />All the way to the Bay by way of LA, Stanford and New Zealand.<br />LA born Riley is a pacey full-back, winger. The former striker offers speed and directness to any team. She was captain of a Stanford team that went 25-1 and reached the final of the 2009 NCAA Championship. The rookie from Stanford is a rookie in WPS name only. She is a mainstay on the New Zealand national team with 34 caps, represented NZ in the 2007 Women’s World Cup and 2008 Beijing Olympics Games. At 22 years old Riley has already captained her national team and help take NZ to the finals of the 2010 Cyprus Cup where they went down narrowly 1-0 to Canada.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUv8bb7BWeUoYLgxMEz3udks4rK2nxsmOO_mAlvllztOT66veDuqvk0rcG_8IGOd5WdZdFjSrRcVXJZUWkxmtpfBZ0UAXNhqbgdUslUzRyhZDCi6-UNdMoKQ-utD5RT5jajNVOBRpe0B8/s1600/ali_rileynz.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 252px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUv8bb7BWeUoYLgxMEz3udks4rK2nxsmOO_mAlvllztOT66veDuqvk0rcG_8IGOd5WdZdFjSrRcVXJZUWkxmtpfBZ0UAXNhqbgdUslUzRyhZDCi6-UNdMoKQ-utD5RT5jajNVOBRpe0B8/s320/ali_rileynz.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457393423007242834" border="0" /></a><br />Riley will bring speed, commitment and experience to the <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 153, 51);">FC Gold Pride</span> back line with the green light to join in attack by overlapping up the wing and providing crosses and through balls. Strength lies in taking on and beating defenders at pace.GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-31856755640432979832010-04-05T10:30:00.000-07:002010-04-08T16:08:30.926-07:00PUMA and WPS RECOGNIZE AWESOME 2010<object width="580" height="360"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hz8YakSF07U&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hz8YakSF07U&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="580" height="360"></embed></object>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-43697644783910256432010-04-01T13:37:00.000-07:002010-04-10T11:09:38.281-07:00WPS UPDATE April 1st - FINAL ROSTERS<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK6YQGzDDQ5rXX5E6dgpt4o9cGKToNdmaDlVpxSuLEpV-Dgwez67FkZs_vOJLovKMM6vPy-DJNgJe52pSHyXHwgbnK8QVSMv8HUT9mKtDNKVokFn3pkWMPl3XEunZTwQBzDkaduHmLPRQ/s1600/freedom.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><br />
</a>With 9 days to go before the 2010 WPS season starts most of the teams have now submitted their opening day rosters. Rosters consist of 18 contracted players and (max) 4 development players.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>= Development player<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaAdYnX1F5SPwGhkqDU8fd8qq7TPiQvz7WyA-K2XpjQaaa1Zp0HptGcov_EZsh1IEGlNs2-aLhoHWFGCepE7ZK-fRE_lwcdtiV4H7A6aoKe5H9fvfMJHMt_JQaxY63tmax4ejX2THRI74/s1600/bosbreak.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><br />
</a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Boston Breakers</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaAdYnX1F5SPwGhkqDU8fd8qq7TPiQvz7WyA-K2XpjQaaa1Zp0HptGcov_EZsh1IEGlNs2-aLhoHWFGCepE7ZK-fRE_lwcdtiV4H7A6aoKe5H9fvfMJHMt_JQaxY63tmax4ejX2THRI74/s1600/bosbreak.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455275992396120050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaAdYnX1F5SPwGhkqDU8fd8qq7TPiQvz7WyA-K2XpjQaaa1Zp0HptGcov_EZsh1IEGlNs2-aLhoHWFGCepE7ZK-fRE_lwcdtiV4H7A6aoKe5H9fvfMJHMt_JQaxY63tmax4ejX2THRI74/s320/bosbreak.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 192px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Goalkeepers</span><br />
18 Allison Lipsher<br />
1 Alyssa Naeher<br />
24 Ashley Phillips (D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Defenders</span><br />
22 Alex Scott<br />
4 Jordan Angeli<br />
6 Amy LePeilbet<br />
17 Kasey Moore<br />
14 Stephanie Cox<br />
21 Analisa Marquez (D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Midfielders</span><br />
13 Kristine Lilly<br />
10 Kelly Smith<br />
5 Maggie Tomecka<br />
12 Leslie Osborne<br />
2 Chioma Igwe<br />
7 Liz Bogus<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Forwards</span><br />
8 Lauren Cheney<br />
15 Fabiana<br />
16 Laura Del Rio<br />
9 Sarah Walsh<br />
88 Tiffany Weimer<br />
33 Claire Zimmeck (D)<br />
25 Taryn Hemmings (D)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3iJf1de_ab7OLqOyDxNev_UH8NBGPD8RTKsfi352P-KpoAlQgaMWa5NFwt0R52ymrM87fv3DYrkITYY8OgndcPCy0ZKM1VCn_HxZAk8kA7ihZZF24TdT7yauvnvgd_Stn3mXt9eYRYs/s1600/chiredstars.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><br />
</a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Chicago Red Stars</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3iJf1de_ab7OLqOyDxNev_UH8NBGPD8RTKsfi352P-KpoAlQgaMWa5NFwt0R52ymrM87fv3DYrkITYY8OgndcPCy0ZKM1VCn_HxZAk8kA7ihZZF24TdT7yauvnvgd_Stn3mXt9eYRYs/s1600/chiredstars.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455276181700786098" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3iJf1de_ab7OLqOyDxNev_UH8NBGPD8RTKsfi352P-KpoAlQgaMWa5NFwt0R52ymrM87fv3DYrkITYY8OgndcPCy0ZKM1VCn_HxZAk8kA7ihZZF24TdT7yauvnvgd_Stn3mXt9eYRYs/s320/chiredstars.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Goalkeepers</span><br />
1 Jillian Loyden<br />
18 Kelsey Davis<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Defenders</span><br />
2 Marian Dalmy<br />
4 Ifeoma Dieke<br />
9 Whitney Engen<br />
13 Natalie Spilger<br />
15 Kate Markgraf<br />
21 Lydia Vandenbergh (D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Midfielders</span><br />
6 Brittany Klein<br />
7 Megan Rapinoe<br />
8 Formiga<br />
14 Karen Carney<br />
17 Katie Chapman<br />
38 Julianne Sitch<br />
25 Jackie Santacaterina (D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Forwards</span><br />
3 Ella Masar<br />
10 Kosovare Asllani<br />
11 Cristiane<br />
22 Jessica McDonald<br />
27 Casey Nogueira<br />
19 Michele Deisenhofer (D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
<br />
<br />
FC Gold Pride</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfrMzr4BTGVs_dM5aucJF1qPcG3VZ_oOFsk7uBjnin-_0maS4hY_LhNa74xBj1-B4uwJ6zysuxTVO4WMt4f3IIixQ-IoYAzCoDR26fGSlGe3nc4-7WIfA7vsBQqOAOqOeLFV3J3Z3GhN4/s1600/fcgold.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455276522360458578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfrMzr4BTGVs_dM5aucJF1qPcG3VZ_oOFsk7uBjnin-_0maS4hY_LhNa74xBj1-B4uwJ6zysuxTVO4WMt4f3IIixQ-IoYAzCoDR26fGSlGe3nc4-7WIfA7vsBQqOAOqOeLFV3J3Z3GhN4/s320/fcgold.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Goalkeepers</span><br />
1 Nicole Barnhart<br />
18 Brittany Cameron<br />
21 Erin Guthrie (D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Defenders</span><br />
4 Rachel Buehler<br />
5 Candace Chapman<br />
19 Carrie Dew<br />
13 Kristen Graczyk<br />
14 Kaley Fountain<br />
3 Ali Riley<br />
9 Kandace Wilson<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Midfielders</span><br />
20 Camille Abily<br />
22 Becky Edewards<br />
8 Solveig Gulbrandsen<br />
2 Kimberly Yokers<br />
6Ashley Bowyer (D)<br />
16 Rosie Tantillo (D<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Forwards</span><br />
10 Marta<br />
15 Tiffeny Milbrett<br />
12 Christine Sinclair<br />
7 Kelley O'Hara<br />
11 Kiki Bosio<br />
<br />
Gold Pride still have 1 development spot left open.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Philadelphia Independence</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs3Ga8vOy8Gis0uhtgQ0usoRdSD9wvYMk0f8TpIPDxLuDbmdmYC3u8zlUWnh4XPMRhjfJZkdfUAazUwqyN_mu5E3MGXNOMsudqAaS24Ut27W4N5dv6VG6iR7eyNmzQCe6G007_N7ZmVx4/s1600/independence.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455276742079402770" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs3Ga8vOy8Gis0uhtgQ0usoRdSD9wvYMk0f8TpIPDxLuDbmdmYC3u8zlUWnh4XPMRhjfJZkdfUAazUwqyN_mu5E3MGXNOMsudqAaS24Ut27W4N5dv6VG6iR7eyNmzQCe6G007_N7ZmVx4/s320/independence.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Goalkeepers</span><br />
23 Karina Le Blanc<br />
1 Val Henderson<br />
21 Robyn Jones (D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Defenders</span><br />
3 Allison Falk<br />
15 Nikki Krzysik<br />
7 Sara Larsson<br />
2 Heather Mitts<br />
5 Sarah Senty<br />
24 Estelle Johnson<br />
12 Katherine Reynolds (D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Midfielders</span><br />
26 Holmfridur Magnusdottir<br />
4 Jennifer Buczkowski<br />
6 Lori Lindsey<br />
17 Joanna Lohman<br />
9 Caroline Seger<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Forwards</span><br />
19 Danesha Adams<br />
8 Amy Rodriguez<br />
11 Karina Maruyama<br />
10 Lianne Sanderson<br />
16 Lyndsey Patterson<br />
14 Carrie Patterson (D)<br />
20 Gina DiMartino (D)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Saint Louis Athletica</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYitkNWemaus2RJjz1QS75aB2qC5_uyHIWKGLrBEZu0MCVT-2fahQIQ6vzeGJGoUpcSjKPUyEwLbAVFUiLFgERHS11Eo2Ax4T3rbctWWT0JWSsCOS3EoPhIUsns3jLcCAllyMJ-vQLb8/s1600/athletica.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455276971986867666" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYitkNWemaus2RJjz1QS75aB2qC5_uyHIWKGLrBEZu0MCVT-2fahQIQ6vzeGJGoUpcSjKPUyEwLbAVFUiLFgERHS11Eo2Ax4T3rbctWWT0JWSsCOS3EoPhIUsns3jLcCAllyMJ-vQLb8/s320/athletica.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 192px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Goalkeepers</span><br />
1 Hope Solo<br />
18 Ashlyn Harris<br />
61 Katie Jo Spisak (D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Defenders</span><br />
2 Elaine<br />
3 Carolyn Blank<br />
4 Kendall Fletcher<br />
8 Tina Ellertson<br />
12 Elise Weber<br />
22 Sarah Wagenfuhr<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Midfielders</span><br />
5 Lindsey Tarpley<br />
6 Aya Miyama<br />
7 Shannon Boxx<br />
10 Daniela<br />
11 India Trotter<br />
17 Lori Chalupny<br />
20 Kristina Larsen - Injured<br />
25 Tina DiMartino<br />
13 Sarah Teegarden (D)<br />
16 Erin Walter (D)<br />
23 Veronica Perez (D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Forwards</span><br />
9 Eniola Aluko<br />
19 Madelaine Edlund<br />
21 Niki Cross<br />
<br />
Kristina Larsen, will begin the season on the injured reserve list. Niki Cross was signed as a free agent by Saint Louis to complete the 22 player active list.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">NJ Sky Blue FC</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3gne9JuJFfjl81MNEWtO90yOtR-RzQNeZc2864yi8zSzTR7iIGRfnGU58mW0gMyQt1DWccG1-H3vpjlMqtx5lp7MEWOY1LGhjrZ3WmyJynnlftaQjwePk414pL6LJ-4AzSBDZvG4XIA/s1600/skyblue.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455298168512593970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3gne9JuJFfjl81MNEWtO90yOtR-RzQNeZc2864yi8zSzTR7iIGRfnGU58mW0gMyQt1DWccG1-H3vpjlMqtx5lp7MEWOY1LGhjrZ3WmyJynnlftaQjwePk414pL6LJ-4AzSBDZvG4XIA/s320/skyblue.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 192px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Goalkeepers</span><br />
1 Karen Bardsley<br />
23 Jenni Branam<br />
18 Ashley Thompson(D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Defenders</span><br />
3 Christie Rampone<br />
4 Daphne Koster<br />
5 Anita Asante<br />
7 Megan Schnur<br />
14 Brittany Taylor<br />
15 Danielle Johnson(D)<br />
17 Keeley Dowling<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Midfielders</span><br />
2 Kiersten Dallstream<br />
8 Kacey White<br />
9 Heather O’Reilly<br />
10 Carli Lloyd<br />
11 Rosana<br />
13 Yael Averbuch<br />
26 Angela Salem(D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Forwards</span><br />
6 Natasha Kai<br />
12 Jessica Landstrom<br />
16 Meagan Snell(D)<br />
21 Laura Kalmari<br />
22 Katie Schoepfer<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Atlanta Beat</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNFhmhPjwn2Pj34VsgKtqFGM6gtCsj62RRToYcxp10_ObWHvHOhHGIAjSkDAHD9D3eCGZrshrHGrdh5Msqh0JYxgyag0chsFQD14iiKRlgwxFZ9_-Pu3Jaw-9gkM1q2kQkGF2De77zENE/s1600/beat.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455303714828280578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNFhmhPjwn2Pj34VsgKtqFGM6gtCsj62RRToYcxp10_ObWHvHOhHGIAjSkDAHD9D3eCGZrshrHGrdh5Msqh0JYxgyag0chsFQD14iiKRlgwxFZ9_-Pu3Jaw-9gkM1q2kQkGF2De77zENE/s320/beat.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 192px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Goalkeepers</span><br />
17 Brett Maron<br />
1 Allison Whitworth<br />
0 Malori Lofton-Malachi (D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Defenders</span><br />
6 Kia McNeil<br />
7 Leigh Ann Robinson<br />
12 Tracy Hamm<br />
16 Blakely Mattern(D)<br />
14 Lauren Sesselman<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Midfielders</span><br />
4 Stacey Bishop<br />
3 Tobin Heath<br />
11 Angie Kerr<br />
15 Amanda Cinalli<br />
5 Katie Larkin<br />
20 Sophia Mundy<br />
19 Rebecca Nolin(D)<br />
9 Mami Yamaguchi<br />
2 McCall Zerboni<br />
23 Marisha Schumacher-Hodge(D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Forwards</span><br />
10 Ramona Bachmann<br />
8 Monica Ocampo<br />
13 Johanna Rasmussen<br />
18 Shelley Thompson<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
<br />
Washington Freedom</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK6YQGzDDQ5rXX5E6dgpt4o9cGKToNdmaDlVpxSuLEpV-Dgwez67FkZs_vOJLovKMM6vPy-DJNgJe52pSHyXHwgbnK8QVSMv8HUT9mKtDNKVokFn3pkWMPl3XEunZTwQBzDkaduHmLPRQ/s1600/freedom.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455314370217264866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK6YQGzDDQ5rXX5E6dgpt4o9cGKToNdmaDlVpxSuLEpV-Dgwez67FkZs_vOJLovKMM6vPy-DJNgJe52pSHyXHwgbnK8QVSMv8HUT9mKtDNKVokFn3pkWMPl3XEunZTwQBzDkaduHmLPRQ/s320/freedom.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 192px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Goalkeepers</span><br />
0 Meagan McCray (D)<br />
1 Briana Scurry<br />
18 Erin McLeod<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Defenders</span><br />
3 Jill Gilbeau<br />
4 Cat Whitehill<br />
5 Brittany Bock<br />
17 Nikki Marshall<br />
21 Alex Singer<br />
22 Becky Sauerbrunn<br />
23 Kristi Eveland<br />
27 Marissa Abegg (D)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Midfielders</span><br />
6 Beverly Goebel (D)<br />
8 Sonia Bompastor<br />
9 Allie Long<br />
10 Homare Sawa<br />
12 Caitlin Miskel (D)<br />
14 Sarah Huffman<br />
19 Rebecca Moros<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Forwards</span><br />
7 Lene Mykjaland<br />
13 Christie Welsh<br />
17 Lisa De Vanna<br />
20 Abby WambachGThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-44169868602274189012010-03-02T13:38:00.000-08:002010-03-02T13:54:06.876-08:00FORMIGA TO CHICAGO<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZHdJ7M7y7L5cqjSuIVl39FxgfV95o8uflhbzr7MZDNPqZmAJR-qP8JOs3XsPVEfmNQ7Gt3C-K-ndtjZvs4dncHhqMqqUGUFNCr8qaLWfHcduaSxuZCGyj1J88aSBRkMgSnFsD04EjziI/s1600-h/formiga-todd-615.ashx.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZHdJ7M7y7L5cqjSuIVl39FxgfV95o8uflhbzr7MZDNPqZmAJR-qP8JOs3XsPVEfmNQ7Gt3C-K-ndtjZvs4dncHhqMqqUGUFNCr8qaLWfHcduaSxuZCGyj1J88aSBRkMgSnFsD04EjziI/s320/formiga-todd-615.ashx.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444157088646637538" border="0" /></a><br />The<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> Chicago Red Stars</span> have announced their final international. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Formiga</span>. Did you guess?I know I didn't. Even though i knew she was released by FC Gold Pride I did not think she would end up in Chicago or was a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Emma Hayes</span> type of player.<br /><br />The Brazilian midfielder returns to WPS after playing for <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 153, 0);">FC Gold Pride</span> in 2009. Starting in 15 of 16 games played. She was voted on to the All-Star team but could not play due to a knee injury towards the end of the season.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">"Her record speaks for itself," <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Red Stars Head Coach Emma Hayes said</span>. "We've acquired one of the top playmaking midfielders in the world. We're going to be looking toward her experience to drive this team, and she's joining an already exceptional group of players."</span><br /><br />Formiga will unite with her Brazilian teammate <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cristiane.</span> Can't wait to hear the samba drums at Toyota Park!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Paul Taylor</span>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-78823732697482166392010-02-28T13:12:00.000-08:002010-02-28T13:29:57.845-08:00LET THE SEASON BEGIN - WPS UPDATETomorrow March 1st marks the official day pre-season camp commences for many of the WPS teams. Some have already started their team meetings and put players through fitness tests. Others have been collecting and ferrying players from airports to around the city apartment hunting. For many it’s try-outs..to see who gets to stay for the rest of preseason before the roster is whittled down from anywhere from 25, 28 sometimes 30 players to the 22 required.<br /><br />March 7 is when the international players are expected from tournaments in Europe such as the Algarve Cup in Portugal where the likes of the USA,Sweden,Norway,Finland,Iceland and Denmark have players participating who are signed to WPS teams and the same for the Cyprus Cup where WPS players from England, Canada, Holland and Switzerland are battling it out against each other.<br /><br />With so much going on since the allocation of the Los Angeles Sol players early this month,here are some of the goings on…so far in Women’s Professional Soccer.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Atlanta Beat </span>once again have been out in front packing their rosters top to bottom. New signings joining No1 draft pick <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tobin Heath</span> are forward <span style="font-weight: bold;">Shelley Thompson</span>(<span style="font-style: italic;">pictured right</span>) from Vfl Wolfsburg. The first <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4qkFScTLPXh1n6jKZx_N40ON-95byjiknPAFakEP8VRFhjQAIVkh_5iVVtTYQxw6lylzF-uAwjlhB0o3MaYsXxqse5_kTCIgb1Nr2eJjLq7P2l3TYjTzYBaYWWJTS-EnWUmIIuWWS8dg/s1600-h/shelly+thompson.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 218px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4qkFScTLPXh1n6jKZx_N40ON-95byjiknPAFakEP8VRFhjQAIVkh_5iVVtTYQxw6lylzF-uAwjlhB0o3MaYsXxqse5_kTCIgb1Nr2eJjLq7P2l3TYjTzYBaYWWJTS-EnWUmIIuWWS8dg/s320/shelly+thompson.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443406305431941954" border="0" /></a>German signing snatches the last international spot for Atlanta. GK <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brett Maro</span>n and midfielder <span style="font-weight: bold;">Marisha Schumacher-Hodge</span> are a couple of free agents. Maron having played in the Damallsvenskan for Kristianstads DFF last year and Schumacher-Hodge from Boston University played for the Boston Aztecs in the WPSL. They have waved goodbye to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Carrie Patterson</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Noelle Kesilica</span>. The latter suffering a preseason knee injury.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Boston Breakers </span>welcome Australian forward <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sarah Walsh</span>. Walsh returns after a successful season down under where Sydney FC won the championship. Walsh will be playing for her 3rd WPS team after clocking hours last season with Sky Blue FC and Saint Louis Athletica. However they will miss the dynamic duo of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Christine Latham</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jenni Nobis</span>. At least of the field they will. Canadian Latham was waived to make room for Walsh and Nobis suffered an ACL injury at the beginning of February.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chicago Red Stars</span> have been pretty quite on the signing business so far but now there are whispers that an international is about to be announced. The announcement is imminent according to Head Coach <span style="font-weight: bold;">Emma Hayes</span>. Any ideas? More good news - English midfielder <span style="font-weight: bold;">Karen Carney</span> is recovering from her knee surgery and hopes to be fit for the start of the season and congratulations are in order for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jill Oakes</span> who announced her pregnancy. The Red Stars have released her from her contract.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirilv-DlJx-GmdKxIXRu4RwUerbPImLAT9uejTY8VjbO3KGWWyhVj2VH1szDljZHnRor5wPRSDjstlyYr_22zwl7owviIsNQKEouH74MAb0gp4Z0cE3XptAYiLwFwDAL0b_QXdFHc6NBQ/s1600-h/Brandi+Chastain.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 269px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirilv-DlJx-GmdKxIXRu4RwUerbPImLAT9uejTY8VjbO3KGWWyhVj2VH1szDljZHnRor5wPRSDjstlyYr_22zwl7owviIsNQKEouH74MAb0gp4Z0cE3XptAYiLwFwDAL0b_QXdFHc6NBQ/s320/Brandi+Chastain.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443406554606699186" border="0" /></a>Another player released but is not happy about it is <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brandi Chastain</span> (<span style="font-style: italic;">pictured left</span>). <span style="font-weight: bold;">FC Gold Pride</span> announced that she will not be invited to pre season camp but they wish her well in what she does. Chastain said she was sad and mad at not having the chance to play with Gold Prides new players such as <span style="font-weight: bold;">Marta </span>and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Camille Abily</span> and to measure herself against them and the younger players. A young player Gold Pride have signed is another former LA Sol player in GK <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brittany Cameron</span>. Cameron was a development GK behind <span style="font-weight: bold;">Karina LeBlanc</span> and<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Val Henderson</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Saint Louis Athletica</span> fans are still recovering from the shock of their captain <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lori Chalupny</span> taking indefinite leave can console themselves a bit with the news that Brazilian midfielder <span style="font-weight: bold;">Daniela</span> is on her way back from injury and has agreed terms with the team for the 2010 season.<br />With the award season out of the way.(FYI: Sky Blue won everything). <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sky Blue FC</span> announced a new shirt sponsor in Somerset Medical Center. So far they are the only team to have secured a shirt sponsor. More good news, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Anita Asante</span> the English defender is recovering from her knee surgery and should be back midseason. So should figurehead and captain <span style="font-weight: bold;">Christie Rampone</span>.<br /><br />Lastly <span style="font-weight: bold;">Washington Freedom</span> who have retained many of the players from last season has signed <span style="font-weight: bold;">Christie Welsh</span> the former USWNT forward. Welsh will play for her 3rd team after stints with the Sol and Athletica. Welsh previously played under Head Coach <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jim Gabarra</span> with the Freedom in the W-LeagueGThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-32365068124893456182010-02-11T14:41:00.000-08:002010-02-11T14:51:06.098-08:00Chalupny out indefinite?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvi_-jO8-ftvNxrWfhozG73hsDrh_rzQMHT6tPtkjDOQ3Z1lJaiX3vx96mkvdRIEX5ZTPUtr_Z24dsaakIb_vNhVj6eyPimFJ6s5In9IhAUsKU7GH1Vr-STCIBqsltM6e2G_cuz4Oa8Rg/s1600-h/lorichalupny.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 248px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvi_-jO8-ftvNxrWfhozG73hsDrh_rzQMHT6tPtkjDOQ3Z1lJaiX3vx96mkvdRIEX5ZTPUtr_Z24dsaakIb_vNhVj6eyPimFJ6s5In9IhAUsKU7GH1Vr-STCIBqsltM6e2G_cuz4Oa8Rg/s320/lorichalupny.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437122018633484050" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lori Chalupny</span> captain of<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"> Saint Louis Athletica </span>and US Women's national team is taking an indefinite leave of absence to deal with concerns related to concussions.<br />Athletica announced today that Chalupny is likely to miss pre-season training and possibly the start of the 2010 season.No specific date has been set for her return. She will also miss the Algarve Cup tournament in Portugal in a few weeks where the USWNT take on Sweden, Norway and Iceland.<br />Chalupny has had previous problems with concussions. She suffered during the 2008 Beijing Olympics where she was taken off against Norway after a coming together with US goalkeeper <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hope Solo</span>.GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-72121069348672500002010-02-04T13:16:00.000-08:002010-02-04T14:13:41.353-08:00EX- SOL PLAYERS REALLOCATED<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoyjagB-08Mmmwc0mrnh-ImZ0EJoMhhiADndof8JVmP7Q_4POqlhXFvCxFzFMwpm2naIOJ7AqJ5jpT-_zfl94t03BMF-2rN45p8UCg2ppK-TI9zaF0dTfhe2DgjnTUXc4GuJ0Yx9DxkCo/s1600-h/2010-ball.ashx.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoyjagB-08Mmmwc0mrnh-ImZ0EJoMhhiADndof8JVmP7Q_4POqlhXFvCxFzFMwpm2naIOJ7AqJ5jpT-_zfl94t03BMF-2rN45p8UCg2ppK-TI9zaF0dTfhe2DgjnTUXc4GuJ0Yx9DxkCo/s320/2010-ball.ashx.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434513974008435714" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">Los Angeles Sol </span>Players were today allocated to the remaining eight teams of the WPS after the demise of the Sol. The "draft" took place behind closed doors and a press release was issued an hour after the start of the "draft".<br /><br />There was some surprise at the results. Most surprise came from<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"> Saint Louis Athletica</span> who had traded up to get 1st pick. Athletica picked <span style="font-weight: bold;">Shannon Boxx</span>,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span>Japanese star</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Aya Miyama</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tina DiMartino</span> and Danish international<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Catherine Paaske Sorenson</span>. It's a surprise because all 4 are top midfielders that you can say play in the same area of the pitch, something i thought Athletica were strong on. I guess defence isn't an option at Saint Louis. Remember Championships are won on defence. It's an old saying but so so true.<br /><br />Other surprises being <span style="font-weight: bold;"> Brittany Bock</span> to <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Washington Freedom</span> and that the Freedom also got the rights to Nigerian striker <span style="font-weight: bold;">Faith Ikidi</span>. A striker who is contracted to Linköping (Swedish Damallsvenskan league) for the 2010 season. Strange but good to see a franchise think beyond 2010. Gives us our hope back.<br /><br />Not so much of a surprise <span style="font-weight: bold;">Marta</span> staying in California with <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 153, 0);">FC Gold Pride</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Karina Le Blanc</span> moving to <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 102, 102);">Philly</span>.<br /><br />Good luck to all the ladies at their new teams. We will be supporting them all.<br /><br /><br />Here are the results by team:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Atlanta Beat</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Manya Makoski MF , Pavlina Scasna F</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Boston Breakers</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Stephanie Cox D, Michelle Enyeart F</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Chicago Red Stars </span>-<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Casey Nogueira F</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">FC Gold Pride</span> -<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Marta F, Kiki Bosio F, Lindsay Browne F</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Philadelphia Independance </span>- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Karina LeBlanc GK, Estelle Johnson D</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Sky Blue FC </span>- <span style="font-weight: bold;"> Nikki Washington MF, Kiersten Dallstream F</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Saint Louis Athletica</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Shannon Boxx MF, Aya Miyama MF, Tina DiMartino MF, Catherine Sorenson MF.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Washington Freedom</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brittany Bock D, Faith Ikidi F</span><br /><br /><br />Results in draft order<br /><br /><i><b>Round 1</b><br />1. Shannon Boxx, M – Saint Louis Athletica *<br />2. Karina LeBlanc, GK – Philadelphia Independence<br />3. Marta, F – FC Gold Pride (Bay Area)<br />4. Casey Nogueira, F – Chicago Red Stars<br />5. Stephanie Cox, D – Boston Breakers<br />6. Nikki Washington, M – Sky Blue FC (NJ/NY)<br />7. Brittany Bock, D – Washington Freedom<br />8. Aya Miyama, M – Saint Louis Athletica<br /><br /><b>Round 2</b><br />9. Manya Makoski, M – Atlanta Beat<br />10. Faith Ikidi, D/F – Washington Freedom<br />11. Kiersten Dallstream, F – Sky Blue FC (NJ/NY)<br />12. Michelle Enyeart, F – Boston Breakers<br />13. Kiki Bosio, F – FC Gold Pride (Bay Area) ^<br />14. Tina DiMartino, M – Saint Louis Athletica #<br />15. Estelle Johnson, D – Philadelphia Independence<br />16. Pavlina Scasna, F – Atlanta Beat<br /><br /><b>Round 3</b><br />17. Pass – Atlanta Beat<br />18. Pass – Philadelphia Independence<br />19. Lindsay Browne, F – FC Gold Pride (Bay Area)<br />20. Pass – Chicago Red Stars<br />21. Pass – Boston Breakers<br />22. Pass – Sky Blue FC (NJ/NY)<br />23. Pass – Washington Freedom<br />24. Catherine Sorenson, M – Saint Louis Athletica<br /><br /><br />* via trade with Atlanta Beat (trade prior to draft)<br />^ via trade with Chicago Red Stars (Chicago receives FC Gold Pride’s 2nd Round pick in 2011 WPS Draft)<br /># via trade with Chicago Red Stars (Chicago receives Saint Louis Athletica’s 2nd Round pick in 2011 WPS Draft)</i><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Paul Taylor (Featured writer)</span>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-27086957947002009562010-02-04T07:20:00.000-08:002010-02-04T08:37:33.305-08:00NEW DAY IN WPS<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5DedpvshAf1IAgXgC0LFMaVnHXG2DrI-fIlFtcdtvNzJKU7l6KgJNZzoc-OqLfyc5DGWTcxgR3PoWpVoA2Yjsg94ORyQr10k6LUlQHito_f7cDYBSp7c1df_PNq0mVzOssy1381Cabzo/s1600-h/soccer-sunset-border.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 297px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5DedpvshAf1IAgXgC0LFMaVnHXG2DrI-fIlFtcdtvNzJKU7l6KgJNZzoc-OqLfyc5DGWTcxgR3PoWpVoA2Yjsg94ORyQr10k6LUlQHito_f7cDYBSp7c1df_PNq0mVzOssy1381Cabzo/s320/soccer-sunset-border.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434428318655277906" border="0" /></a><br /><br />We have sufficiently recovered from the doom of the<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"> LA Sol</span> here at womans scoccer insider to report that a "New day" starts today for WPS.<br /><br />Today sometime after 1pm ET, 6pm European time, the remaining women of the LA Sol will be placed (we hate the word dispersed...really) with the remaining eight teams of WPS.<br /><br />There are a total three rounds, potentially 24 players can be picked with the likes of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Marta</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Shannon Boxx </span>and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Aya Miyama</span> to name but a few up for grabs.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">Saint Louis Athletica</span> have managed to wrangle their way to 1st pick with some trading with the previous 1st pickers <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">Atlanta Beat</span> by sending defender <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kia McNeil </span>and Midfielder <span style="font-weight: bold;">Angie Kerr(Woznuk)</span> to Atlanta. What that means only time will tell.<br /><br />Find out the results from twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/womensprosoccer">women's Pro Soccer</a> and back here for an in depth update.GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-59550095486007677642010-01-17T13:48:00.000-08:002010-01-17T13:51:40.764-08:00WPS Draft & PUMA Party Highlights<span style="font-weight: bold;">Here is a taste to some of the goings on on Friday at the 2010 WPS draft & unveiling of the new Puma uniforms.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The season can start now...please..can't wait.</span><br /><br /><object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/-SP8TTdRuZQ&hl=en_GB&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/-SP8TTdRuZQ&hl=en_GB&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="340" width="560"></embed></object><br /><h1><br /></h1>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-6959869771183804242010-01-17T03:56:00.000-08:002010-01-17T04:14:12.376-08:00LA SOL UP FOR SALE?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_bOWE6Gc0yC21V2Jlnbe04ry7wGsCKKgrwBy4CUzaCry0dDbhV56SAly7gdlM08m1KzEy65HJ62O4hfjOu0xjIv9schzdq-Q-jVr56Crzjj1ROI4VL78XPO5yyqLKTaQoS69Nnakmjc/s1600-h/Sol_Logo.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 245px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_bOWE6Gc0yC21V2Jlnbe04ry7wGsCKKgrwBy4CUzaCry0dDbhV56SAly7gdlM08m1KzEy65HJ62O4hfjOu0xjIv9schzdq-Q-jVr56Crzjj1ROI4VL78XPO5yyqLKTaQoS69Nnakmjc/s320/Sol_Logo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427680570442173714" border="0" /></a><br />The <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">Los Angeles Sol </span>we here today are looking for new owners and a new coach.<br /><br />Anschutz Entertainment group (AEG), which had a 50 percent share in the team that played at AEG-owned Home Depot Center, has been in discussions "for months" with an unidentified party to sell its stake. Well they did say they were not in it for the long haul ...but really!Just one season..what was the point.<br /><br />Head Coach<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Abner Rogers</span> left the team on 23 December 2009. Left or let go? Depends who you ask.General Manager <span style="font-weight: bold;">Charlie Naimo</span> has taken over coaching duties from Rogers for the time being.<br /><br />It's the Sol fans i feel sorry for. They had only just recovered from loosing <span style="font-weight: bold;">Camille Abily</span>.<br />It's going to be a very interesting season for them.GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-34268163974368868582010-01-16T02:06:00.000-08:002010-01-16T03:33:55.457-08:002010 WPS Uniforms<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwrbrkHCUSwzUc6sRzysKKKrteFnwmLCOHRQv0Dbnh_ED18pjqH1zMG98QwhIwk5cv9KyF_exEsG99RTJc8IILocYiuOtUUBWooDVGkJ0XcLWpm3A9T_aErhga9hF4qXwfh3qWmbPD2JU/s1600-h/uniforms.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwrbrkHCUSwzUc6sRzysKKKrteFnwmLCOHRQv0Dbnh_ED18pjqH1zMG98QwhIwk5cv9KyF_exEsG99RTJc8IILocYiuOtUUBWooDVGkJ0XcLWpm3A9T_aErhga9hF4qXwfh3qWmbPD2JU/s320/uniforms.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427297799839432706" border="0" /></a><br />Puma unveiled the 2010 WPS Home and Away uniforms Friday night in Philadelphia. Hosted by the Los Angeles Sol goalkeeper <span style="font-weight: bold;">Karina Le Blanc</span> after the WPS Draft, players from all 9 teams mixed with fans and media for a showstopping unveil.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICBoiqQtAFgbKWavpeaBERRxf3HeJbifmFOMMmq8-Rpf-ggm5hi5nJPGCIl32llcf16uhpaz525iyXFxlWVvMq5WJBEL_Iso1yaK7bTHV94zdVr82BiG-2kgGsPfz8bI76bs5VGlAd_o/s1600-h/group-above.ashx.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICBoiqQtAFgbKWavpeaBERRxf3HeJbifmFOMMmq8-Rpf-ggm5hi5nJPGCIl32llcf16uhpaz525iyXFxlWVvMq5WJBEL_Iso1yaK7bTHV94zdVr82BiG-2kgGsPfz8bI76bs5VGlAd_o/s320/group-above.ashx.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427297985480786242" border="0" /></a><br />Players on show:<br /><br />• Atlanta Beat: Leigh Ann Robinson and Tobin Heath<br />• Boston Breakers: Leslie Osborne and Lauren Cheney<br />• Chicago Red Stars: Ella Masar and Whitney Engen<br />• FC Gold Pride: Tiffeny Milbrett and Kelley O’Hara<br />• Los Angeles Sol: Manya Makoski and Casey Nogueira<br />• Philadelphia Independence: Amy Rodriguez and Caroline Seger<br />• Sky Blue FC: Yael Averbuch and Brittany Taylor<br />• St Louis Athletica: Kendall Fletcher and Angie Kerr(<span style="font-style: italic;">nee</span> Woznuk)<br />• Washington Freedom: Cat Whitehill and Nikki Marshall<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">To see the uniforms up close click</span> <a href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/photos/Events/Other%20Events/100115-puma-uniforms.aspx"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">HERE</span></a>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-79060492498739055032010-01-15T16:28:00.000-08:002010-01-15T16:38:29.270-08:00Draft results by WPS teamCongratulations to all players picked...next step to make the final 22 woman roster.Pre-season starts in March!<br /><br /><b style="color: rgb(153, 51, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;">Atlanta Beat</span></b><br /><br />1. Atlanta Beat – Tobin Heath, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M</span>, UNC<br />21. Atlanta Beat – Blakely Mattern, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>, South Carolina<br />23. Atlanta Beat - Shameka Gordon,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> D/M</span>, West Florida<br />30. Atlanta Beat – Jill Hutchinson, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Wake Forest<br />40. Atlanta Beat – Carrie Patterson, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Georgia (<span style="font-style: italic;">traded from Philly</span>)<br />48. Atlanta Beat – Kasey Langdon, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Oklahoma St.<br />57. Atlanta Beat – Shaneka Gordon, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, West Florida<br /><br /><br /><br /><b style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><span style="font-size:100%;">Boston Breakers</span></b><br /><br />2. Boston Breakers - Lauren Cheney, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, UCLA<br />11. Boston Breakers - Alyssa Naeher,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> GK</span>, Penn State<br />16. Boston Breakers – Jordan Angeli, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>, Santa Clara<br />34. Boston Breakers – Katherine Reynolds, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>, Santa Clara<br />43. Boston Breakers – Cynthia Morote-Ariza, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Loyola-Chicago<br />52. Boston Breakers – Carly Peetz, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D,</span> Nebraska<br />56. Boston Breakers – Gina DiMartino, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M/F</span>, Boston College<br />61. Boston Breakers – Casey Brown, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>, Boston University<br />65. Boston Breakers – Taryn Hemmings, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Denver<br /><br /><br /><b style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;">Chicago Red Stars</span></b><br /><br />4. Chicago Red Stars – Whitney Engen, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>, North Carolina<br />15. Chicago Red Stars – Jessica McDonald, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, North Carolina<br />24. Chicago Red Stars – Kelsey Davis, <span style="font-weight: bold;">GK</span>, Portland<br />33. Chicago Red Stars – Michele Weissenhofer, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Notre Dame<br />42. Chicago Red Stars – Sophie Reiser, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M/F</span>, Columbia<br />51. Chicago Red Stars – Fiona O'Sullivan, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M/F</span>, San Francisco<br />60. Chicago Red Stars – Jackie Santacaterina, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M</span>, Illinois<br /><br /><br /><b style="color: rgb(204, 153, 51);"><span style="font-size:100%;">FC Gold Pride</span></b><br /><br />3. FC Gold Pride – Kelley O'Hara, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Stanford<br />10. FC Gold Pride - Ali Riley, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>, Stanford<br />12. FC Gold Pride - Becky Edwards, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D/M</span>, Florida State<br />20. FC Gold Pride - Kaley Fountain, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Wake Forest<br />32. FC Gold Pride – Erin Guthrie, <span style="font-weight: bold;">GK</span>, Rutgers<br />41. FC Gold Pride – Ashley Bowyer, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M/D</span>, Ohio State<br />50. FC Gold Pride – Eilzabeth Harkin, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>, Arizona State<br />59. FC Gold Pride – Lauren Wilmoth, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>, UCLA<br /><br /><br /><b style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><span style="font-size:100%;">Los Angeles Sol</span></b><br /><br />5. Los Angeles Sol - Nikki Washington, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, North Carolina<br />8. Los Angeles Sol - Casey Nogueira, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, North Carolina<br />9. Los Angeles Sol – Kiersten Dallstream, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Washington St.<br />14. Los Angeles Sol - Michelle Enyeart, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Portland<br />22. Los Angeles Sol - Kiki Bosio, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Santa Clara<br />25. Los Angeles Sol – Estelle Johnson, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>, Kansas<br />38. Los Angeles Sol – Mary Casey, <span style="font-weight: bold;">GK</span>, Maryland<br />47. Los Angeles Sol - Lindsay Browne, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M/F</span>, Clemson<br /><br /><br /><br /><b style="color: rgb(51, 102, 102);"><span style="font-size:100%;">Philadelphia Breakers</span></b><br /><br />13. Philadelphia Independence – Malorie Rutledge,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> M</span>, LSU<br />31. Philadelphia Independence – Kelly Henderson, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D/M</span>, Boston College<br />39. Philadelphia Independence – Mallori Lofton-Malachi, <span style="font-weight: bold;">GK</span>, South Florida<br />58. Philadelphia Independence – Caitlin Farrell, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>, Wake Forest<br />62. Philadelphia Independence – Danielle Collins, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D/M</span>, William & Mary<br /><br /><br /><b style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span style="font-size:100%;">Sky Blue FC</span></b><br /><br />6. Sky Blue FC – Brittany Taylor,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> D</span>, Connecticut<br />26. Sky Blue FC – Katie Schoepfer, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Penn State<br />29. Sky Blue FC - Melissa Clarke,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> M</span>, LSU<br />35. Sky Blue FC – Danielle Johnson, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>, Ole Miss<br />44. Sky Blue FC – Meagan Snell, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, Santa Clara<br />49. Sky Blue FC – Jennifer Anzivino, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D/M</span>, Rutgers (<span style="font-style: italic;">from Philly</span>)<br />53. Sky Blue FC – Kelly Isleib, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M</span>, Utah<br /><br /><br /><b style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;">St. Louis Athletica</span></b><br /><br />17. Saint Louis Athletica - Kristina Larsen, <span style="font-weight: bold;">F</span>, UCLA<br />19. Saint Louis Athletica – Ashlyn Harris, <span style="font-weight: bold;">GK</span>, North Carolina<br />28. Saint Louis Athletica – Amanda Poach, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M</span>, Santa Clara<br />37. Saint Louis Athletica – Veronica Perez, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M/F</span>, Washington<br />46. Saint Louis Athletica – Carolyn Blank, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M/D</span>, WVU<br />55. Saint Louis Athletica – Sarah Teegarden, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M</span>, Wisconsin-Milwaukee<br />64. Saint Louis Athletica – Elisabeth Redmond, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M</span>, Duke<br /><br /><br /><b style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><span style="font-size:100%;">Washington Freedom</span></b><br /><br />7. Washington Freedom – Nikki Marshall, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D/M/F</span>, Colorado<br />18. Washington Freedom – Carly Dobratz, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M</span>, Washington State<br />27. Washington Freedom – Beverly Goebel, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M</span>, Miami<br />36. Washington Freedom – Kristi Eveland, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D</span>, UNC<br />45. Washington Freedom – Lauren Robertson, <span style="font-weight: bold;">GK</span>, Ohio State<br />54. Washington Freedom – Mara Osher, <span style="font-weight: bold;">D/M</span>, Boston University<br />63. Washington Freedom – Caitline Miskel, <span style="font-weight: bold;">M/F</span>, Virginia <br /><br /><br />Which team done good? Any surprises? Who is not there?GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-43992690835168729002010-01-15T15:48:00.000-08:002010-01-15T16:22:54.103-08:002010 WPS DraftThe <span style="font-weight: bold;">2010 WPS Draft</span> took place on Friday at the Philadelphia Convention Center. All 9 teams of the WPS were represented by Owners, General Managers & Head Coaches.The draft was deep with the best college players on the table.<br />The <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">Atlanta Beat</span> were first on the board and they picked University of North Carolina(UNC) star <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tobin Heath</span>.Other top 5 picks were UCLA forward <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lauren Cheney</span> by the <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Boston Breakers</span>, Stanford goal machine <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kelley O'Hara</span> remains in California with<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 153, 51);"> FC Gold Pride</span>, UNC pair <span style="font-weight: bold;">Whitney Engen</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nikki Washington</span> round out the top 5 drafted to <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Chicago Red Stars</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">Los Angeles Sol </span>respectively.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KsZrL1B5jFgY6l0gqtabriYGyKYG9ribuJmDJC9RdxCoIKFdAOZQF4XdLEs3EQxbellMuJ7dY_Cf9W736FDLiH5wWN7d0WabnPSSNESM8PieC3spfRPxnSsvzQlMbkHyZZLWQ2GMFTo/s1600-h/cheney_lauren_229arizona09ucla.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 254px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KsZrL1B5jFgY6l0gqtabriYGyKYG9ribuJmDJC9RdxCoIKFdAOZQF4XdLEs3EQxbellMuJ7dY_Cf9W736FDLiH5wWN7d0WabnPSSNESM8PieC3spfRPxnSsvzQlMbkHyZZLWQ2GMFTo/s320/cheney_lauren_229arizona09ucla.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427122844413124578" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lauren Cheney</span> (above)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kelley O'Hara</span> (below)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVH9-Ix0_phblP1WZxiRofPGTvz-jPjGgbn4GwVyE4Oo0cTOggZMqKH1vevk9I9WsCmDj0db_snkoqjP7PAAsgzq_cgHRRUTsImqih-PMix_IEpNelXStKeLn8rzpskBjZwq74BSXfF4/s1600-h/o'hara.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVH9-Ix0_phblP1WZxiRofPGTvz-jPjGgbn4GwVyE4Oo0cTOggZMqKH1vevk9I9WsCmDj0db_snkoqjP7PAAsgzq_cgHRRUTsImqih-PMix_IEpNelXStKeLn8rzpskBjZwq74BSXfF4/s320/o'hara.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427123266775945602" border="0" /></a>Another UNC star <span style="font-weight: bold;">Casey Nogueira</span>, predicted by many experts to be among the top four prospects, slipped to eighth and was snapped up by the <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">Los Angeles Sol</span> where the creative forward could partner up top with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Marta</span> for an interesting frontline.<br /><br />Penn's State <span style="font-weight: bold;">Alyssa Naeher</span> was the first goalkeeper selected at No. 11 by the <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Boston Breakers</span>.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXgY6nISrZMSB2ACYRz8h0116FoXCnEdLSBVOre1r4uARYSrz61uyUoP9TruaU5Zg8ayPmFCG1N2Xe-rUlQ347_poLldEjY6bEWDtR0I9C5ShuLqdhkz80LrRVkjDwBPyy0CNJckGheI/s1600-h/naeher.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXgY6nISrZMSB2ACYRz8h0116FoXCnEdLSBVOre1r4uARYSrz61uyUoP9TruaU5Zg8ayPmFCG1N2Xe-rUlQ347_poLldEjY6bEWDtR0I9C5ShuLqdhkz80LrRVkjDwBPyy0CNJckGheI/s320/naeher.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427123808590468418" border="0" /></a> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Alyssa Naeher</span>(below)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />In total UNC had 7 players drafted followed by Santa Clara with 5.<br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>FIRST ROUND</strong> <br />1. Atlanta Beat – Tobin Heath, M, UNC<br />2. Boston Breakers # - Lauren Cheney, F, UCLA<br />3. FC Gold Pride – Kelley O’Hara, F, Stanford <br />4. Chicago Red Stars – Whitney Engen, D, North Carolina<br />5. Los Angeles Sol # - Nikki Washington, F, North Carolina<br />6. Sky Blue FC – Brittany Taylor, D, Connecticut<br />7. Washington Freedom – Nikki Marshall, D/M/F, Colorado<br />8. Los Angeles Sol # - Casey Nogueira, F, North Carolina<br />9. Los Angeles Sol – Kiersten Dallstream, F, Washington St.<br />10. FC Gold Pride # - Ali Riley, D, Stanford<br />11. Boston Breakers # - Alyssa Naeher, GK, Penn State<br /><br /><strong>SECOND ROUND</strong><br />12. FC Gold Pride # - Becky Edwards, D/M, Florida State<br />13. Philadelphia Independence – Malorie Rutledge, M, LSU<br />14. Los Angeles Sol # - Michelle Enyeart, F, Portland<br />15. Chicago Red Stars – Jessica McDonald, F, North Carolina<br />16. Boston Breakers – Jordan Angeli, D, Santa Clara<br />17. Saint Louis Athletica # - Kristina Larsen, F, UCLA<br />18. Washington Freedom – Carly Dobratz, M, Washington State<br />19. Saint Louis Athletica – Ashlyn Harris, GK, North Carolina<br />20. FC Gold Pride # - Kaley Fountain, F, Wake Forest<br /><br /><strong>THIRD ROUND<br /></strong>21. Atlanta Beat – Blakely Mattern, D, South Carolina<br />22. Los Angeles Sol # - Kiki Bosio, F, Santa Clara<br />23. Atlanta Beat # - Shameka Gordon, D/M, West Florida<br />24. Chicago Red Stars – Kelsey Davis, GK, Portland<br />25. Los Angeles Sol – Estelle Johnson, D, Kansas<br />26. Sky Blue FC – Katie Schoepfer, F, Penn State<br />27. Washington Freedom – Beverly Goebel, M, Miami<br />28. Saint Louis Athletica – Amanda Poach, M, Santa Clara<br />29. Sky Blue FC # - Melissa Clarke, M, LSU <p> <strong>FOURTH ROUND</strong> <br />30. Atlanta Beat – Jill Hutchinson, F, Wake Forest<br />31. Philadelphia Independence – Kelly Henderson, D/M, Boston College<br />32. FC Gold Pride – Erin Guthrie, GK, Rutgers<br />33. Chicago Red Stars – Michele Weissenhofer, F, Notre Dame<br />34. Boston Breakers – Katherine Reynolds, D, Santa Clara<br />35. Sky Blue FC – Danielle Johnson, D, Ole Miss<br />36. Washington Freedom – Kristi Eveland, D, UNC<br />37. Saint Louis Athletica – Veronica Perez, M/F, Washington<br />38. Los Angeles Sol – Mary Casey, GK, Maryland</p> <p> <strong>ROUND FIVE<br /></strong>39. Atlanta Beat – Mallori Lofton-Malachi, GK, South Florida (traded to Philadelphia)<br />40. Philadelphia Independence – Carrie Patterson, F, Georgia (traded to Atlanta)<br />41. FC Gold Pride – Ashley Bowyer, M/D, Ohio State<br />42. Chicago Red Stars – Sophie Reiser, M/F, Columbia<br />43. Boston Breakers – Cynthia Morote-Ariza, F, Loyola-Chicago<br />44. Sky Blue FC – Meagan Snell, F, Santa Clara<br />45. Washington Freedom – Lauren Robertson, GK, Ohio State<br />46. Saint Louis Athletica – Carolyn Blank, M/D, WVU<br />47. Los Angeles Sol - Lindsay Browne, M/F, Clemson</p> <p> <strong>ROUND SIX<br /></strong>48. Atlanta Beat – Kasey Langdon, F, Oklahoma St.<br />49. Philadelphia Independence – Jennifer Anzivino, D/M, Rutgers (to Sky Blue FC)<br />50. FC Gold Pride – Eilzabeth Harkin, D, Arizona State<br />51. Chicago Red Stars – Fiona O’Sullivan, M/F, San Francisco<br />52. Boston Breakers – Carly Peetz, D, Nebraska<br />53. Sky Blue FC – Kelly Isleib, M, Utah<br />54. Washington Freedom – Mara Osher, D/M, Boston University<br />55. Saint Louis Athletica – Sarah Teegarden, M, Wisconsin-Milwaukee<br />56. Boston Breakers – Gina DiMartino, M/F, Boston College (pick traded from Los Angeles Sol)</p> <p> <strong>ROUND SEVEN</strong> <br />57. Atlanta Beat – Shaneka Gordon, F, West Florida<br />58. Philadelphia Independence – Caitlin Farrell, D, Wake Forest<br />59. FC Gold Pride – Lauren Wilmoth, D, UCLA<br />60. Chicago Red Stars – Jackie Santacaterina, M, Illinois<br />61. Boston Breakers – Casey Brown, D, Boston University<br />62. Philadelphia Independence – Danielle Collins, D/M, William & Mary<br />63. Washington Freedom – Caitline Miskel, M/F, Virginia<br />64. Saint Louis Athletica – Elisabeth Redmond, M, Duke<br />65. Boston Breakers – Taryn Hemmings, F, Denver</p> <p>#via trade</p>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-73368182252953455842010-01-15T12:42:00.000-08:002010-01-15T13:02:17.138-08:00Jillian Loyden to finally be a No1?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF21kThrSH21qnImXLMX6posxpeUk8Z9PIlUwv1FcQSjwovbRssrtR7woCflHgQUQL-vY00pMvk8o7sv89bt9xWwsiYiG9EJEXccqXFND1XRiUyYBKOZ0ExHXlwZ9ErJcRoGbLOwYCFdw/s1600-h/loyden-0831052.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 297px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF21kThrSH21qnImXLMX6posxpeUk8Z9PIlUwv1FcQSjwovbRssrtR7woCflHgQUQL-vY00pMvk8o7sv89bt9xWwsiYiG9EJEXccqXFND1XRiUyYBKOZ0ExHXlwZ9ErJcRoGbLOwYCFdw/s320/loyden-0831052.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427072994745706066" border="0" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">The <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Chicago Red Stars </span>announce the acquisition of former <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">Saint Louis Athletica</span> goalkeeper <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jillian</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Loyden</span>, in exchange for 2009 Red Stars midfielder<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Lindsay Tarpley</span>.<br /></span></span><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Loyden, who was Athletica's backup goalkeeper to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hope Solo</span>, played in three matches during the 2009 Women's Professional Soccer season.<br /><br /></span></span><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Loyden spent the WPS offseason on loan to the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Central Coast Mariners</span> of Australia's Westfield W-League, earning W-League Goalkeeper of the Year honors. Loyden posted three shutouts and a 7-2-1 record.</span></span><br /><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Chicago moved to obtain Loyden after the organization made the decision to release 2009 starting goalkeeper <span style="font-weight: bold;">Caroline Jönsson</span> from her contract.<br /><br /></span></span><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">"I am so excited for this opportunity to play at such a well-respected club," <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Loyden</span></span> <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">said</span>. <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">"I can't wait to meet my new teammates, get on the field and start working with a great coaching staff toward a very successful 2010 season."</span><br /><br />Tarpley currently making her way back from an ACL injury </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNUDe4-7qQE74u0H-oTv_nMfuYG5yE9a8vQACnFNaOVG4Y0KTFDBXGaq6w-5rjXq_QD24sW2YmUXNipbWc2jx17BR8UEojAjihaDF8zPG-M7NlQORQy1eeZuQCwIY_rHPH58A5XY1Is0/s1600-h/tarpley-lindsay_0874.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNUDe4-7qQE74u0H-oTv_nMfuYG5yE9a8vQACnFNaOVG4Y0KTFDBXGaq6w-5rjXq_QD24sW2YmUXNipbWc2jx17BR8UEojAjihaDF8zPG-M7NlQORQy1eeZuQCwIY_rHPH58A5XY1Is0/s320/tarpley-lindsay_0874.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427073095372475714" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">will move to Saint Louis to team up with a few familiar faces</span></span><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"> in Captain <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lori Chalupny</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hope Solo</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tina Ellertson</span> from US WNT & <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kendall Fletcher</span> from UNC days.<br /><br /><br /><br /></span></span>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-47541619578787609172010-01-15T12:23:00.000-08:002010-01-15T12:40:07.229-08:00TOBIN HEATH NO1<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr44LBoDnTpPivmgThcEm4VnmetRGSmBAckej_O9Q2tYhB_WP434cmTDd-lvzPsNDd9tIPzUH1dVYi2VSpePvUfSUx_SYqu3_9pf7EkwqE69pz9AIfq7JE04jLFsf78MRuGpXLIcPqAC4/s1600-h/tobinh.ashx.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr44LBoDnTpPivmgThcEm4VnmetRGSmBAckej_O9Q2tYhB_WP434cmTDd-lvzPsNDd9tIPzUH1dVYi2VSpePvUfSUx_SYqu3_9pf7EkwqE69pz9AIfq7JE04jLFsf78MRuGpXLIcPqAC4/s320/tobinh.ashx.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427067257530408322" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">The <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">Atlanta Beat </span>picked 20-year-old US midfielder <span style="font-weight: bold;">Tobin Heath</span> first overall in the WPS Draft today.<br />Heath was already favourite to be named 1st pick.<br />The University Of North Carolina star has had a great season at college level winning another NCAA title with the all conquering Tar Heels, making it 3 in total for herself. She also </span><span class="articleText">won U.S. Soccer's Young Female Award for 2009.<br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">“This is incredible,” <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Heath said.</span> “I heard a lot of things (about possibly being picked first) but you don’t really know until you’re sitting right here. This is going to be a fantastic year.”</span><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.twitvid.com/player/FF1A7"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.twitvid.com/player/FF1A7" quality="high" allowscriptaccess="always" allownetworking="all" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Read more on Tobin Heath</span> <a style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);" href="http://www.womensprosoccer.com/Home/atlanta/news/press_releases/10-01-15-beat-sign-heath">HERE</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">Final results of the 2010 WPS Draft to come..stay tuned.</span>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4063098692814333878.post-18174281333009143942010-01-14T13:21:00.000-08:002010-01-14T13:33:05.989-08:00Cristiane resigns for Chicago<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYEcEcoIF9cfm6-EtWL-NmmJ1Syy4N2J7n6W39AHSiaVy0IUH-TPbO2F2OnLSRBo5r4QxFhQpmZ6SfOOYfeaMMssYaokyblA0zwSQG5g1pmn6YXJK2FgCZStOIBmECu62wgDmJ8z_4HEg/s1600-h/cristiane-run-celebration-fcgp-durochik.ashx.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYEcEcoIF9cfm6-EtWL-NmmJ1Syy4N2J7n6W39AHSiaVy0IUH-TPbO2F2OnLSRBo5r4QxFhQpmZ6SfOOYfeaMMssYaokyblA0zwSQG5g1pmn6YXJK2FgCZStOIBmECu62wgDmJ8z_4HEg/s320/cristiane-run-celebration-fcgp-durochik.ashx.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426710822328643442" border="0" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" >The <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Chicago Red Stars </span>announce the re-signing of Brazilian striker <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cristiane</span> for the team's 2010 season.<br /></span><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" >With the return of Cristiane, the Red Stars have retained 10 players from last season's roster. Included in this group is defender <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kate Markgraf</span>, who missed the entire 2009 season because of the birth of twins.<br /><br /></span><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" >The 24-year-old Cristiane originally was drafted fifth overall by the Red Stars in the first round of the WPS International Draft, and her international success was instantaneous.</span>She <span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" >led the Red Stars with 7 goals and recorded the only hat trick in WPS history during a 3-1 win over <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 153, 51);">FC Gold Pride</span> on July 12, 2009.</span><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" >Was named to the WPS All-Star Team and helped the WPS side win the WPS All-Star Game, defeating Swedish team <span style="font-weight: bold;">UmeaIK</span>, 4-2, on Aug. 30, 2009.</span><br /><br /><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">"I am really excited to be able to return to the Chicago Red Stars; they have treated me very well," <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Cristiane said.</span> "I look forward to helping my team win the league this year. I had many options, but in the end I chose Chicago and the Red Stars because they are a great team, and it feels like home."</span><br /><br /></span><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">"Cristiane is a fan favorite, and we believe our supporters are going to be excited about her return," <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">General Manager Marcia</span> <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">McDermott said.</span></span><br /></span><br /><span style=";font-family:'Arial','sans-serif';font-size:10pt;" ><br /></span>GThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08592964173223383685noreply@blogger.com0