Thursday 30 July 2009
WPS BREAKING NEWS - SKY BLUE COACH LINDSEY RESIGNS, CAPTAIN RAMPONE IS NEW COACH...
What is going on at Sky Blue FC headquarters?..........
Christie Rampone has become Sky Blue's 3rd coach in as many months.
Sky Blue FC announced today that team captain and US Women's National Team star Christie Rampone has agreed to serve as interim player/coach of Sky Blue FC. Rampone will be assisted by long-time New Jersey coach Mike Lyons. This follows yesterday's resignation of Head Coach Kelly Lindsey.
"We are grateful to Christie for stepping up," said Sky Blue FC General Manager Gerry Marrone. "She has been a tremendous leader and support to the players thus far, and a strong asset to management. We have every confidence both she and Mike will not only fill a void, but do a great job."
Regarding Lindsey's resignation, said Marrone, "We are actually quite shocked. We gave Kelly a great opportunity as Head Coach and she was making progress. We are disappointed that she chose to leave the team ten days prior to the end of the regular season, with two remaining games and Sky Blue FC in playoff contention."
Rampone will assume her duties immediately. The team has two remaining regular season games, and is currently in fifth place and in contention for one of the final three open playoff spots in the inaugural season of Women's Professional Soccer. The Los Angeles Sol has already clinched the number one playoff position.
Read more at SkyBlue.com
WASHINGTON FREEDOM 1 - 0 BOSTON BREAKERS
Abby Wambach scored the winning goal for the Washington Freedom against the Boston Breakers last night at the Maryland Soccerplex to keep Washington on-track for the playoffs.
The Freedom leapfrog the Breakers into 3rd place in the standings , with a game in hand.
The game started badly for Boston when Alex Scott was redcarded in the 5th minute for a tackle against Sonia Bompastor. Studs were showing as Scott slide tackled and caught Bompastor on the ankle. That changed the game. Boston retreated into a defensive shell and played counterattack.
As a result of the red card, the Freedom enjoyed the better of the play for much of the first half, although Boston did mount some pressure in the later stages, and was only out-shot, 6-4.
The best scoring chance of the first half came from Rebecca Moros in the 21st minute, when she received a cross with space to the far post on the right side of the goal, but she shot high over the bar.
The Freedom did not make the most of their player advantage. The midfield did not penetrate and they were not stretching the Breakers enough.
The 2nd half was pretty much the same with Washington finding it difficult to break down the Breakers. Allie Long came on in the 58th minute for Moros to bring some creativity to their attack. With close ball control and the willingness to dribble at defenders, Long added a spark to Washington.
Kelly Smith came on for the Breakers on 55 minutes for Jenni Nobis. Whenever Smith got the ball Freedom defender Cat Whithill followed. At one point she followed Smith into the Boston half hounding her until Smith lost control of the ball.
Wambach's goal came in the 73rd minute when she stole the ball from a Boston midfielder , passed it to strike partner Lisa De Vanna who 1-2'd it back to Wambach in the penalty area. Wambach beat the defender and shot a low ball passed GK Ali Lipsher.
Boston nearly leveled the game in stoppage time when Smith broke free from her marker and shot a hard ball towards goal. Washington GK Erin McLeod making a spectacular stop tiping the ball over the bar to preserve the lead. The ball was heading for the top right hand corner.
Both teams play their next games on Saturday. Washington head to North California to play FC Gold Pride.For the Freedom it will be their third game in a week. A win will see them jump to 2nd place in the standing for a few hours till the Athletica game.
Boston head to Saint Louis to take on 2nd place Athletica. A win there would put them in the playoffs.
"We were way too frantic," Freedom Coach Jim Gabarra said. "And we weren't using the width and we weren't possessing at all."
“I’m really proud of the players, they played their hearts out,” said Breakers head coach Tony DiCicco. “The game changed unfortunately in the fifth minute and Washington did what they needed to do. I just feel very bad for my players to have to have played a very difficult game.”
Lineups:
WASHINGTON: Erin McLeod; Jill Gilbeau (Kristin DeDycker, 82), Cat
Whitehill, Becky Sauerbrunn, Alex Singer (Ali Krieger, 39); Sonia
Bompastor, Homare Sawa, Lori Lindsey, Rebecca Moros (Allie Long, 58); Lisa De Vanna, Abby Wambach (C) .
BOSTON: Alli Lipsher; Alex Scott, Amy LePeilbet, Candace Chapman, Heather
Mitts; Maggie Tomecka, Fabiana (Nancy Augustyniak-Goffi, 70),
Mary-Frances Monroe (Kelly Schmedes, 64), Angela Hucles, Kristine
Lilly (C) ; Jennie Nobis (Kelly Smith, 56).
Wednesday 29 July 2009
WPS MIDWEEK MATCH 29/07/09
Washington Freedom v Boston Breakers Wed July 29th 8pm ET Live Comcast Sportsnet
Wednesday will mark the fourth and final regular season game between the Washington Freedom (6-6-5, 23 pts.) and Boston Breakers (7-6-4, 25 pts.). Just two points separate the two teams, giving this game vital importance as they fight for a spot in the playoffs. The winner of the game will find themselves in no worse than third place in the league standings, while Boston also has the opportunity to jump ahead of Saint Louis Athletica and into second place, although with a game in hand over Athletica.
Head to Head the Breakers lead with 2 wins and a draw.
The Freedom have also gone unbeaten in their previous three matches, including wins in their last two. Washington is the highest scoring team in the league with 26 goals scored, and yet has also conceded the most goals (28). Abby Wambach is tied for the team lead with Lisa De Vanna, having scored five times on the year, including a brace on either side of halftime in the team’s 3-2 win over Chicago on Sunday.
Boston is unbeaten in its last three matches and have not allowed a goal in 323 consecutive minutes, a team season-best. In fact, the Breakers have not allowed a goal to a team other than Sky Blue in eight matches since a 1-1 tie versus FC Gold Pride on June 17. That match was the first start for goalkeeper Alli Lipsher, who is now fourth in the league with five shutouts.
For Washington Ali Krieger could be fit to start. She has been training the past few days.
Boston's defender Sue Weber is out for the season after undergoing knee surgery last week.
Kelly Smith travelled with the team to DC but could start on the bench.
Tuesday 28 July 2009
Monday 27 July 2009
WPS UPDATE
Playoff Picture
Week 18 didn’t do much to clarify the playoff picture but it did mark the official end of any post-season dreams for two WPS teams. With a loss Sunday to Washington, the Chicago Red Stars were officially eliminated from playoff contention, as was FC Gold Pride. The Bay Area side needed a victory over Saint Louis to stay in mathematical contention.
Standings
Week 18 didn’t do much to clarify the playoff picture but it did mark the official end of any post-season dreams for two WPS teams. With a loss Sunday to Washington, the Chicago Red Stars were officially eliminated from playoff contention, as was FC Gold Pride. The Bay Area side needed a victory over Saint Louis to stay in mathematical contention.
The Los Angeles Sol became the first team to clinch their seed in the WPS Playoffs Thursday with a scoreless draw against FC Gold Pride that gave the Sol the WPS Regular Season title. As champions of the regular season, Los Angeles earns the right to host the WPS Championship on August 22 at 4pm ET/1pm PT at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif.
But positions 2-5 in the WPS Standings are as jumbled as ever as Washington moved into a tie with Sky Blue FC for fourth-place with a game in hand over the New Jersey side. With nine games left in the WPS Regular Season, here’s a basic team-by-team playoff overview with this week’s clinching or elimination scenarios in the current order of the standings:
1.) Los Angeles Sol – has clinched the WPS Regular Season title and a spot in the WPS Championship
2.) Saint Louis Athletica – will clinch a playoff spot and guarantee a home playoff game with a victory on Saturday vs. the Boston Breakers
3.) Boston Breakers – will clinch a playoff spot with a victory on Wednesday vs. the Washington Freedom and could clinch a home playoff game with two victories this week
4.) Washington Freedom – August 8th game vs. Sky Blue FC to close the season looms on the horizon as a key game if these two teams remain within three points of each other.
5.) Sky Blue FC – August 8th game vs. Washington Freedom to close the season looms on the horizon as a key game if these two teams remain within three points of each other.
6.) Chicago Red Stars – Eliminated from playoffs
7.) FC Gold Pride – Eliminated from playoffsStandings
| P | W | D | L | F | A | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (C) L.A. | 18 | 11 | 5 | 2 | 24 | 6 | 38 |
| Saint Louis | 17 | 8 | 3 | 6 | 15 | 14 | 27 |
| Boston | 17 | 7 | 4 | 6 | 17 | 16 | 25 |
| Washington | 17 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 26 | 28 | 23 |
| Sky Blue | 18 | 6 | 5 | 7 | 16 | 17 | 23 |
| Chicago | 18 | 4 | 5 | 9 | 15 | 22 | 17 |
| Gold Pride | 17 | 3 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 23 | 14 |
SAINT LOUIS ATHLETICA 1 - 1 FC GOLD PRIDE
In an exciting WPS Sunday match, FC Gold Pride played the second place Saint Louis Athletica to a 1-1 tie, denying the home team's bid to clinch a post-season berth. The result of the must-win match does mark the end of the Pride's Inaugural Season playoff campaign, but the team didn't go down without a battle.
The Pride took control of the tempo in the first half, firing off six quality shots on goal, including a couple of close range opportunities that resulted in near misses.
Athletica, capitalized on one of their few opportunities in the half, scoring on a quick counter attack mounted in the 28th minute to put the home team up 1-0. Nikki Cross gave her team the first half lead, scoring the first goal of her WPS career, as she volleyed the ball into the back of the net on a low cross served from Kendall Fletcher.
Saint Louis had many quality chances to put the game away during the rest of the first half and through out the second half. Once again the story for Athletica would become not being able to find the goal to kill off the game. The best chances fell to Eniola Aluko in the 58th minute when she force Nicole Barnhart into a diving stop. Amanda Cinalli had a chance with a header in the 64th that Barnhart stopped and Aluko nearly made it 2-0 in the 84th minute on a cross from Lori Chalupny.
Christine Sinclair punished Athletica for their missed chances in the 88th minute getting equalising goal keeping Athletica from getting the three points they needed to secure a playoff spot.
Sinclair’s goal came from a Tina DiMartino cross that found Sinclair unmarked at the back post. Sinclair took one touch and drilled her shot home for a perfect finish.
The draw leaves the WPS Playoff picture wide open. Athletica remain in second place with 27 points and maintain their two-point margin over the Boston Breakers. The Breakers will visit Athletica next week for a Saturday August 1 tilt that could well decide who finishes second in the WPS.
The Pride will return to Buck Shaw Stadium to host the Washington Freedom on Saturday, August 1 at 3 p.m. Although the team's post season run is over, they can still play a role the WPS playoffs as they look to be the spoiler for teams sitting on the bubble of making the cut, including the Freedom who are currently locked in a battle with Sky Blue FC for the fourth place slot.
“We had a lot of chances, especially in the second half. We need more composure,” said Head Coach Jorge Barcellos “A counter attack on a one-on-one is not a chance you should lose on. Something that is simple has become hard for us. I don’t know why.”
FC Gold Pride Coach Alebertin Montoyo
"We had a lot of incredible opportunities to put the game away, it was nice to see Christine put one in the back of the net. It lifted our team, they saw that we could still do it and we fought till the very end. It was more like a track meet at the end of the game, both teams wanted the win. It was an exciting finish."
"Without a doubt, we are going to go out there and keep improving," Montoya said of his game plan for the final three games of the season. "We are going to go out strong and go out to win our next three games. We believe we can, as we have all season long. We've been unfortunate at times, but we're going to go out here and play for our fans and play for each other. You'll see a great performance from us in the next three games."
Lineups:
Saint Louis Athletica: Hope Solo; Elise Weber, Sara Larsson (Stephanie Logterman 46), Tina Ellertson, Kia McNeill (Melissa Tancredi 73); Kendall Fletcher,Angie Woznuk,Lori Chalupny (C), Amanda Cinalli; Nikki Cross (Sarah Walsh 66), Eniola Aluko
FC Gold Pride: Nicole Barnhart; Rachel Buehler, Kristen Graczyk, Carrie Dew (Erika Arakawa 83), Leigh-AnneRobinson; Leslie Osborne (C), Formiga, Brandi Chastain (Kim Yokers 67), Tina DiMartino; Tiffany Milbrett (Adriane 78),Christine Sinclair
CHICAGO RED STARS 2 - 3 WASHINGTON FREEDOM
The Chicago Red Stars were eliminated from the playoff contention after going down 1 minute from time by the Washington Freedom at Toyota Park.
In front of their 2nd biggest home crowd, 5226 and wearing green shirts for charity for the Environment the Red Stars had got off to a great start but were pipped at the post by an Allie Long goal.
Chicago’s Megan Rapinoe got the scoring going in the game when she took a Carli Lloyd pass and beat Freedom goalie Erin McLeod to the right corner of the net on the 15th minute.
Freedom then leveled the game through a Abby Wambach goal in the 35th minute. Wambach had several chances before that to score , getting closer each time. This time she out muscles or virtually runs over Red Stars defender Ifeoma Dieke to run in on goal.
Into the 2nd half and Wambach put the Freedom in front in the 56th minute, 2-1, to score her 5th goal of the season from a pass from Lisa De Vanna.
Red Stars heads started to drop as they couldn't get a foothold in the game and passes and movement of the ball were not what it should be.
Australian Heather Garriock was substituted in on the 68th minute for Captain Lindsey Tarpley and immediately made an impact on her teamates and on the game. On her first touch of the ball Garriock sent a ball to Karen Carney wide open on the right side of the net. Carney drilled a shot to the other side of the goal to level the match once again 2-2.
It looked like the game was going to peater as a draw when Long a 74th minute substitute dribbled her way into the box past several Red Stars defenders(like they weren't there) to coolly slot the ball past the on rushing Caroline Jonsson in the 89th minute.
Cruel end to the game and the season for the Red Stars.
With the loss, Chicago remains at 17 points with two games remaining in the regular season. Washington moves into a tie with Sky Blue FC for 23 points. Because those two teams still have a head-to-head meeting remaining, the Red Stars have been eliminated from postseason contention.
Chicago Red Stars Head Coach Emma Hayes
“I think everybody knows it was a must win game for both teams. I think we started out relatively ok, but after the first goal we were very flat. We looked quite tired and the heat seemed to drain us quite a bit. We struggled to retain the ball and equally struggled to try to position when we lost it. Credit to Washington, I thought they should have scored more than one goal in the first half.”
“I don’t think the back four had a good game today. I thought as a unit they struggled. But I also think that you have to work to deny service into them, in the front and the midfielders, and I don’t think we got close to them consistently enough in the first half.”
“I think for us as a team from this point on we want to make sure that we put in good performances for our fans and start the rebuilding process going into next season to make sure that we have the vital pieces that are going to push this team on.”
“I told our team before the game today that we couldn’t ask to be in a better position because we control our own playoff destiny and do not have to rely on other teams to help us,” said Gabarra. “This might be our toughest stretch all year with three games in three cities in a week but we responded today on the road against a team that desperately needed a win.”
Lineups:
Chicago Red Stars – Caroline Jönsson; Marian Dalmy,Jill Oakes, Ifeoma Dieke, Natalie Spilger (Frida Östberg, 61); Karen Carney,Carli Lloyd, Brittany Klein, Megan Rapinoe (Ella Masar, 55); Lindsey Tarpley(C) , (Heather Garriock, 68), Cristiane.
Washington Freedom – Erin McLeod; Jill Gilbeau, Cat Whitehill, Becky Sauerbrunn, Alex Singer (Allie Long, 74); Rebecca Moros (Joanna Lohman, 81), Homare Sawa, Lori Lindsey, Sonia Bompastor; Abby Wambach(C) ,Lisa De Vanna.
BOSTON BREAKERS 0 - 0 NJ SKY BLUE FC
Jenni Branam played a blinder for Sky Blue FC to frustrate the Boston Breakers once again at Harvard Stadium, denying them the win that would have clinched a playoff spot and keeping Sky Blue's record of no loses to Boston intact. Branam made eight saves to record the shut-out her sixth of the season – the second best total in Women’s Professional Soccer.
The Breakers started of strongly in the 1st half from the very first minute.In the 11th minute, Maggie Tomecka had perhaps the best chance of the match when she got on the end of a bouncing ball in front of the net, but hit it to the center where Branam was positioned to make the diving save. In the 17th minute, Kristine Lilly sent Jennie Nobis on a breakaway with a long ball, but with just Branam standing in her way of a goal, Nobis was unable to find the corner.
Sky Blue did not have many chances in the 1st half.They only managed 3 shots. Heather O'Reilly being the most offensive player for Sky Blue.In the 26th minute, O’Reilly hit a shot that went right over the middle of the cross bar. Then in the 39th, she again got the ball and took it down the right side before crossing it across the goal mouth, but Ali Lipsher picked it up before one of O’Reilly’s teammates got a foot on it.
The Breakers went into the changing rooms wondering how they failed to score. After dominating the half.
The 2nd Half did not live up to the anticipation.
Kristine Lilly had The Breakers best opportunity in the 54th minute when she shot a ball to the left of the goal. Branam made a diving save to keep the game level.
Alex Scott having moved up to midfield had a breakaway and was tearing down on goal. Branam once again flew out of her goal to take the ball of her before she could get a shot in.
With Boston deflated with their failure to score. Sky Blue came more into the game and started to create chances. The best late on when Kelly Parker hit a shot to the left corner, but Breakers defender Heather Mitts got in front of it to deflect it from the goal.
The Breakers are now 2 pts behind second-place Saint Louis Athletica and remain two points clear of Sky Blue, who are tied in fourth with Washington Freedom. Freedom have a game in hand.
COACH TONY DICICCO On the draw…
Well we’re disappointed. In some ways we thought that was our best offensive half of the season, but we didn’t get anything from it. Jenni Branam made some great saves, but our quality in front of the goal just isn’t good enough and it has kind of plagued us all season long. We’re disappointed, but a point hurts them more than it hurts us. They only have two games left, so it limits how many total points they can get.
COACH KELLY LINDSEY
“Unbelieveable. Thank goodness for Branam, I think that’s the theme of the night for us. She definitely saved us – our team knows it, Boston knows it, Branam was the hero today by far.”
“I expect at this point that they have nothing but dislike for us and were definitely going to come at us. I expected numbers up top. I didn’t know exactly who they were going to throw in there, but I’ve watched their film the past few weeks and just expected them to be on an attacking fury. Every team needs to be at this point.”
“I think after those first 10 or 15 minutes, it was just ‘Let’s get into halftime, tie it or maybe we’ll sneak one and be a goal up,’ but we’re very happy to get into halftime tied. I think we can all take a sigh of relief and kind of start over and rebuild.”
Lineups:
Boston Breakers – Allison Lipsher; Alex Scott, Nancy Augustyniak, Amy LePeilbet, Heather Mitts; Kelly Schmedes, Angela Hucles, Maggie Tomecka, Kristine Lilly(C) ; Jennifer Nobis (Amy Rodriguez 62', Christine Latham 77'), Fabiana (Abby Crumpton 58').
Sky Blue FC – Jenni Branam; Jen Buczkowski, Keeley Dowling(C) , Anita Asante, Meghan Schnur; Heather O'Reilly(C) , Rosana (Noelle Keselica 59’), Collette McCallum, Kelly Parker; Kerri Hanks (Julianne Sitch 65'), Kacey White.
Saturday 25 July 2009
Euro joy for England's Women's U19s
England Women’s U19s are celebrating tonight after lifting the UEFA European Championship in Belarus.
A goal apiece for Toni Duggan and Jordan Nobbs secured a 2-0 victory over Sweden in the Final and Rebecca Spencer’s clean sheet means The Three Lions triumphed in the competition without conceding a single goal.
Congratulations!! Euro 2009 next, please.
Read more on England's success HERE
WPS PREVIEW WEEK 18
Boston Breakers v NJ Sky Blue FC Sat July 25th 7pm ET
The Boston Breakers can clinch a playoff berth this weekend as they return home to face northeast nemesis Sky Blue FC in WPS action Saturday at 7 p.m. (ET) at Harvard Stadium. A Boston win and a Washington loss on Sunday would clinch a playoff spot for the Breakers.
Sky Blue FC have won all three previous meetings between the two.
A win on Saturday by Boston would put them back in second with a one-point lead over Athletica, pending Saint Louis’ match Sunday versus FC Gold Pride. The Los Angeles Sol clinched the regular season title last night, meaning teams are now playing to host the Super Semifinal (August 18 or 19) as the second seed.
The Breakers coming off a 1-0 win against FC Gold Pride will have all their national team players back. Expect to see Alex Scott, Amy LePeilbet, Candace Chapman and Heather Mitts all return to the backline.Kelly Smith is still doubtful with a knee injury. She didn't play any games while on International duty with England.
Sky Blue FC are still in fourth place despite the loss Wednesday at Saint Louis. They currently are two points in front of the Washington Freedom for the fourth and final playoff spot, but have played one more match than the Freedom. The New Jersey club will have to play without captain and starting central defender Christie Rampone, who underwent emergency abdominal surgery while with the U.S. National Team in Rochester, N.Y. last week. She is hopeful to return to action by the end of the season. But they welcome back English star Anita Asante and Heather O'Reilly.
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Chicago Red Stars v Washington Freedom Sun July 26th 4pm ET Live Webcast
The Washington Freedom travels to Chicago this Sunday to face the Red Stars at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Ill. It will be the fourth and final regular season meeting between the two teams.
The Freedom will be looking for their first win against the Red Stars, as they have drawn 1 and lost twice to them, the last lost being at Toyota park last month where Chicago made WPS history coming from behind to win.
Chicago are coming of a defeat by Sky Blue FC in their previous match which kept them in 6th place in the WPS standings. A win would keep them in contention for a playoff spot.
Carli Lloyd, Lindsey Tarpley,Megan Rapinoe and Karen Carney all return from their national teams.
The Freedom, on the other hand played a hard-fought battle with Saint Louis Athletica and came away with the win and the shutout, their third of the season.Abby Wambach, Cat Whitehill and Erin McLeod will slot back into the starting 11.
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Saint Louis Athletica v FC Gold Pride Sun July 26th 6pm ET Live FSC and Webcast
Saint Louis Athletica and FC Gold Pride both enter Sunday’s match at The Anheuser-Busch Soccer Park in Fenton, Mo. on the brink. All eyes will be on them and so will the Fox Soccer camera's.
A must win for different reasons for the two teams.
For second-place Saint Louis, a victory combined with a Sky Blue FC loss or tie in its match Saturday versus the Boston Breakers will secure a post-season berth for the Athletica.
For last-place FC Gold Pride, who enters the match with a nine-game winless streak, a loss will officially eliminate them from the playoff hunt.
With four games left each, the Pride is in dire straits needing to earn three points in every remaining match to have a shot at the post-season, while the Athletica is looking to earn maximum points to secure a second-place finish and a bye into the WPS Super Semifinal.
Hope Solo and Melissa Tancredi return for Athletica. Defender Niki Cross will continue her stance up top to compliment striker Eniola Aluko.
Gold Pride will welcome back defender Rachel Buehler and more importantly forward Christie Sinclair.
Will the Athletica clinch a playoff berth? With FC Gold Pride be eliminated from the post-season chase? Exciting stuff!
Friday 24 July 2009
TAKE A BOW ENIOLA ALUKO
Eniola Aluko.....is making more than just a splash in the WPS. More a tidal wave. At least to Athletica.The English international has emerged as one of the best players in the league and once again had a very busy week where she has played for England in England and played twice for Saint Louis Athletica in the USA. Playing more or less the full 90 minutes in all 3 matches.
This shows she is viewed as a very important player for club and country.
On Wednesday night another goal by Aluko against Sky Blue FC has taken Athletica one step closer to clinching a playoff spot. The goal is Aluko's 5 th of the season. She is comfortably in the top 10 scorers chart of the WP, hanging with the likes of Marta, Cristiane, Natasha Kai, Christine Sinclair and English national teamate Kelly Smith.
Athletica have scored a total 14 goals this season. Not only has Eniola scored 5 of those goals she has assisted on a further 4 earning praise from other coaches in the WPS and Athletica coach Jorge Barcellos who said that she is a very important player for Athletica and they will miss her when she leaves for the Euro's in August.
Athletica captain Lori Chalupny also has high praise for Aluko.
"You can see why she's done so well in this league,She's so good at taking people on (one on one), she's so confident in turning with the ball. Her shot, she's got a real quick release. It's unlike anything I've seen, how quick she gets her shot off."
For England Aluko has scored 6 goals in 38 appearances. With the confidence from her WPS season behind her we are betting Eniola Aluko will also be making a splash in Finland at Euro 2009. A tidal Wave no less!
Paul Taylor
FC GOLD PRIDE 0 - 0 LOS ANGELES SOL
The Los Angeles Sol clinched the 2009 WPS Regular Season title with a 0-0 tie against FC Gold Pride Thursday evening at Buck Shaw Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif.In front of 3,873 fans.
This means the Sol has a spot in the league's championship game Aug. 22 at the Home Depot Center.
Both teams had numerous shots on goal throughout the match. Sol midfielder Aly Wagner at the ground where she played her college games registered the game's first scoring opportunity, about four minutes in, when she one-timed a bouncing ball on the right side of the box wide of the right post.
Gold Pride answered back when Adriane weaved past several defenders inside the penalty box before slipping a nice drop-back pass to an open Tina DiMartino, whose right-footed shot sailed just over the goal.
Wagner got a second strong chance moments later. Brazilian star Marta found her streaking down the right side with a perfect ball. GK Allison Whitworth gobbled up Wagner's attempted cross near the goal line.
Gold Pride got their best chance of the half when Di Martino escaped a Sol defender in the penalty box by spinning and passed to an open Brandi Chastain on the right side. Chastain's shot was hit hard into Karina LeBlanc's chest for the save to maintain the 0-0 and her 12th shutout of the season.
Into the 2nd half both teams swapped scoring opportunities, Han Duan getting LA's best chance in the 67th minute with a shot that was blocked by Whitworth.
The Sol clinched the regular season crown with two regular season matches still remaining on their schedule: Sunday, August 2 at the Chicago Red Stars and Sunday, August 9 at the Boston Breakers. As the Number One seed entering the WPS post-season, the Sol will host the WPS Championship at The Home Depot Center on Saturday, August 22.
FC Gold Pride remains in last place.They travel to Saint Louis to face the second-place Athletica on Sunday, July 26. Defeat there would see them out of contention for a playoff spot.
“I think the players really refocused themselves and whether you win or lose we’ve got to be able to bring it for ourselves, for the fans, and for the respect of the game,” said Forward Tiffany Milbrett."With the high learning curve with some of these younger players, we've now learned how to play,"
“We are delighted to win the WPS Regular Season title,” said Los Angeles Sol Head Coach Abner Rogers. “We have had a great a great five months and are very happy to have won for the city of Los Angeles and our great fans.”
Lineups:
Los Angeles Sol: Karina LeBlanc(C) ; Manya Makoski, Sharlota Nonen; Brittany Bock, Keri Sanchez, Aly Wagner (77: McCall Zerboni), Camille Abily, Lisa Sari (46: Shannon Boxx), Aya Miyama, Han Duan, Marta.
FC Gold Pride: Alison Whitworth, Leigh Ann Robinson, Kristen Graczyk, Carrie Dew, Greer Barnes, Formiga, Tina DiMartino, Leslie Osborne(C), Brandi Chastain (80: Yokers), Tiffany Milbrett, Adriane (90: Massengale).
SAINT LOUIS ATHLETICA 1 - 0 NJ SKY BLUE FC
Saint Louis Athletica defeated Sky Blue FC 1-0 in front of 3,726 spectators at The Anheuser-Busch Soccer Park on Wednesday night to leap back into 2nd place in the WPS standings.
English star Eniola Aluko scored the only goal in the 48th minute.
In the 1st half Athletica created quite a few chances. Eniola Aluko forced Jenni Branam into a diving save in the 18th minute. Niki Cross did the same in the 31st. One minute later Amanda Cinalli nearly connected on a Lori Chalupny cross. Cinalli’s sliding attempt just missed meeting the ball. Cinalli nearly scored again in the 39th minute but put her shot over the bar.
Sky Blue nearly got the 1st goal though in the 44th minute when a Natasha Kai effort went just over the bar.
Athletica got on the board early in the second half when Aluko stole a ball while pressing a Sky Blue defender then calmly dribbled in, rounded goalkeeper Branam, and finished off her chance. The goal was her fifth of the season and gave Saint Louis a perfect start to the second half.
In the second half Saint Louis had their chances to kill off the game but just couldn’t convert.
Sky Blue started to come back into the match in the 2nd half. Midfielder Yael Averbuch crashed a shot of the bar in the 60th minute.Eight minutes later Kai got in alone on goal against Jillian Loyden but Athletica’s keeper made a heart-stopping dive to take the ball off Kai’s foot and prevent a shot from even occurring.
Averbuch again was denied 2 minutes from time with a header of a corner by Loyden. And Casey White had the last chance in stoppage time with a shot that Loyden somehow managed to dive down to.
The game was one that was full of quality scoring chances for both teams. Sky Blue managed 14 shots, Saint Louis 11. Sky Blue turned eight shots on goal and Athletica had five. Loyden posted seven saves for Athletica including crucial stops late and in stoppage time, Branam kept Sky Blue in the game with four stellar saves.
Athletica is two points clear of Boston who are idle this midweek and four points clear of Sky Blue FC who remain in fourth for the moment. The win also gave Athletica a perfect 3-0-0 mark over Sky Blue FC for the season.Now on 26 pts, they need 4pts to clinch an automatic playoff spot.
Their next game is at home on Sunday July 26 against a struggling FC Gold Pride.
Sky Blue FC remains in fourth spot with 22 pts. With only 3 matches remaining. Their next game is on Saturday July 25 against 3rd place Boston Breakers who are 2 pts ahead of them in the WPS standings with 24pts. Sky Blue are Boston's bogey team having beaten them 3 times already.
“I could see the defender playing around with the ball a bit and I knew she was a bit uncomfortable so I pressed her,” said Aluko. “Jorge Barcellos talked about how they would give up a ball if we pressed them. That’s what I did and it paid off.”
“Aluko was a forward who believed that the defender is always going to give up,” said Head Coach Jorge Barcellos. “If they believe this they will succeed and Aluko had that belief.”
Lineups:
Saint Louis Athletica – Jillian Loyden; Kia McNeil, Tina Ellertson, Sara Larsson, Elise Weber; Lori Chalupny(C) , Kendall Fletcher, Angie Woznuk, Amanda Cinalli (Lisa Stoia 71’); Niki Cross (Sarah Walsh 57’), Eniola Aluko (Stephanie Logterman 92+).
Sky Blue FC – Jenni Branam; Katie Hooker (Lauren Sesselmann 91+), Jen Buczkowski, Keeley Dowling(C) , Meghan Schnur; Julianne Sitch (Kerri Hanks 69’), Yael Averbuch, Rosana (Noelle Keselica 75’), Collette McCallum; Kacey White, Natasha Kai.
Wednesday 22 July 2009
ENGLAND 1 - 0 DENMARK
England signed of for the Euro's with a 1-0 win over Denmark.Substitute striker Jody Handley scoring in the 87th minute.
In their last warm-up match before Euro 2009 England fielded a much different team to the one that lost against Iceland last week.
There were welcome starts for Fara Williams, Karen Carney, Anita Asante and Alex Scott.
Karen Bardsley of NJ Sky Blue earned her 1st cap right from the start. Regular GK Rachel Brown took a knock in the warm-up and had to sit out. Boston Breakers Kelly Smith again did not play due to her troublesome knee.
England created a few chances early on with Fara Williams and Sue Smith on the end of some good moves.Williams shooting just wide on 18 minutes. Denmark playing with some youngsters also put on a good show.New star Nadia Nadim stood out, heading just over the bar on 21 minutes.
England continued to create chances in the 2nd half but the Denmark defence held strong with Captain Katrine Pedersen organising her defence well.
England lacked that creative spark to unlock the stubborn Danish defence. Denmark were well organised and should put up a good showing in the Euros.
RB Alex Scott started to be more prominent in the Danish half and on the 72nd minute nearly assisted on a goal. Scott sent a ball into the box and Williams got on the end and struck the ball towards goal. The ball was saved by the Danish keeper only for it to rebound out to striker Sue Smith who slid into the ball only to see it agonisingly strike the post.
With minutes running out Karen Carney sent in a ball from the left and Jody Handley on as a 2nd half substitute for Lianne Sanderson connected with a glancing header for her 6th career goal for England.
Boston Breakers Alex Scott was named Player Of The Match for another outstanding and tireless performance.
England will name their final 22 on August 4th. Scott and Handley have shown their intent to Hope Powell.
England: Karen Bardsley; Alex Scott, Lindsey Johnson, Anita Asante,Casey Stoney; Jill Scott (Emily Westwood, 90),Katie Chapman; Karen Carney, Fara Williams(C) , Sue Smith; Lianne Sanderson (Jody Handley, 46).
Denmark: Heidi ElgaardJohansen (Tine Cederkvist, 46); Marie Bjerg, Mette Jensen, Katrine Pedersen(C) , Line Hansen; Ditte Larsen, Nielsen (Marianne Pedersen, 90); Katrine Veje (Tina Rasmussen, 73), Nanna Christiansen (Jane Madsen 87), Nadia Nadim; Maiken Pape (Lene Jensen, 46).
Tuesday 21 July 2009
WPS MIDWEEK MATCHES 22/07/09 -23/07/09
Saint Louis Athletica v NJ Sky Blue FC Wed July 22nd 8pm ET Live audio Team1380
Sky Blue FC head to The Anheuser-Busch Soccer Park, Saint Louis looking for a win against Saint Louis Athletica that will see them move up to 2nd place in the WPS standings.
Sky Blue are coming of a 4 match unbeaten run and Athletica lost their unbeaten run to Washington Freedom at the weekend.
Previous meetings between these two clubs have been tight and tense affairs. The first meeting on June 7 resulted in a 1-0 home win for Athletica with Amanda Cinalli scoring on her debut just 15 minutes into the game. The next encounter on June 28 was a 2-1 win on the road for Saint Louis; Elise Weber provided the game-winner in the 84th minute. Wednesday night will be the final regular season meeting between these two teams.
Both teams again will be missing some players due to international duty.
Athletica will be without GK Hope Solo and Sky Blue will miss several significant players: Heather O’Reilly, on U.S. National Team duty; Christie Rampone, injured; Kelly Parker, on Canadian National Team duty; and Anita Asante and Karen Bardsley who are on duty for England.
Captain Lori Chalupny could play as she has returned home from the USWNT squad following the death of her grandfather.Chalupny will be active for Wednesday night’s game and is listed as probable on the team’s injury report.
Sarah Walsh could start to face her old teamates.
Kerri Hanks and Francielle return to their old team ground but may start on the bench.
*****************************************************
FC Gold Pride v Los Angeles Sol Thurs July 23rd 10pm ET
Los Angeles Sol can once again try to clinch the WPS regular season crown and a spot directly into the championship match with a win or a draw against FC Gold Pride at Buck Shaw Stadium.
This is the fourth meeting between the two teams and The Sol lead the series 3 -0.
FC Gold Pride really need to win this game to have any chance of making the last playoff spot.FC Gold Pride won’t be officially eliminated if they lose to Los Angeles but if they lose and Washington wins, the Pride will be officially eliminated. If Washington ties or loses to Chicago, FC Gold Pride would need to defeat Saint Louis to keep their playoff hopes alive.
The Pride are coming off a disappointing loss at home to the Boston Breakers at the weekend. They looked like a team that knew it's fate in that game. The team was disjointed and with GK Nicole Barnhart, Rachel Buehler and striker Christine Sinclair still away with their national teams other players particularly their Brazilian players need to step up big time.
The Sol have not been in action for 2 weeks but have been training hard and the trying out new formations and players. A new backline could be introduced as Christie Shaner is out with a broken leg and Stephanie Cox is on national team duty as is Captain Shannon Boxx and GK Karina LeBlanc.Allison Falk is recovered from the cut that kept her out for two matches, but she sprained her ankle near the end of training on Monday and is questionable for the trip to the Bay Area. She will be re-evaluated on Tuesday. New signing defender Sharolta Nonen may get some playing time.
Monday 20 July 2009
FC GOLD PRIDE 0 - 1 BOSTON BREAKERS
Kelly Schmedes scored her first goal of the season to lead the Boston Breakers past FC Gold Pride, 1-0, on Sunday night at Buck Shaw Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif.
Schmedes goal for the Breakers came in the 13th minute, beating the offsides trap from a pass by Mary-Frances Monroe before slotting the ball past Pride goalkeeper Allison Whitworth. The assist was Monroe’s first of the season.
The Breakers had the majority of play and chances in the first half, as Kristine Lilly and Fabiana were constantly dangerous in the attack. Boston held an 8-2 shot advantage in the first 45, including six shots on goal.
The Pride pressured the Breakers in the second half, firing off nine shots while not allowing a single shot on goal. Despite a couple of close-range opportunities, the Pride couldn't find the back of the net. The closest coming in the 57th minute when midfielder Tina DiMartino hit the crossbar and the followup shot from Formiga hit the post.
US Soccer star Tiffeny Milbrett shined once again on the front line for the Pride as one of the driving forces behind the team's attack.
Boston (7-6-3, 24 points) held on for the victory taking them back up to 2nd place in the WPS standings.
FC Gold Pride (3-9-3, 12 points) lost for the fourth-consecutive match and remain winless in their last eight. They are now 10 points behind Sky Blue FC for the fourth and final playoff spot with five matches remaining.
FC Gold Pride will remain at home to host the first place Los Angeles Sol on Thursday July 23rd.. This is the fourth and final time the intrastate rivals will meet during the 2009 regular season. The Sol owns the season series against the Pride, winning all three previous matches between the west coast teams.
The Breakers return home to face Sky Blue FC on Saturday July 25th in the fourth and final meeting between the two teams. Sky Blue FC has won all three previous meetings.
FC Gold Pride Head Coach Albertin Montoya.
"We stress how important it is to go out there and get the first goal show some energy, excitement and desire to compete, and try to make things happen. I think we lacked that in the first half. In the second half we started to create chances, hit the post twice and started getting in behind the defense, we were pressing them. As it happens so often we had one breakdown in the back. We have to give Boston credit, they took advantage of that and put the ball in the back of the net. At the end of the day, it was similar to some of the losses in the past whether we have our national team players or not, it's that one breakdown."
FC Gold Pride forward Tiffeny Milbrett.
"I want to take responsibility for not being able to tie up this game,It's not easy when you have missing pieces. Unfortunately were still a very young team and very fragile, we haven't grown enough together. I think what we see right now, is we're putting stuff together. But unfortunately luck is not with us sometimes, also were not creating our own luck."
"I think we are a team that needs to just keep fighting to the very end. Regardless, we need to button up our defense, button up our midfield, we need to score goals from our forwards, or even from our midfield; we just have to do everything," added Milbrett.
Boston Breakers Head Coach Tont DiCicco
“We got that first goal and that’s an important goal in this league.I thought we had a couple really good chances to go two up and we didn’t, so I knew it was going to be a really difficult game in the second half. Still we played well.”
Boston Breakers forward Kelly Schmedes
“We had a number of players missing.I feel like it says a lot about our team and just the depth of our team and the heart of our team how we had confidence in each other and we work hard for each other and that’s how we got the win.”
Line -ups:
FC GOLD PRIDE: Allison Whitworth, Carrie Dew, Kristen Graczyk (C) , Tina DiMartino (Adriane, 85), Leigh Ann Robinson, Greet Barnes, Formiga, Tiffeny Milbrett, Tiffany Weimer (Kimberly Yokers, 46), Erika (Sissi, 64), Eriko Arakawa.
BOSTON: Alli Lipsher; Abby Crumpton, Kasey Moore, Nancy Augustyniak-Goffi, Erika Sutton, Maggie Tomecka, Kristine Lilly(C) , Mary-Frances Monroe (Sophia Mundy,62), Kelly Schmedes, Fabiana (Stacy Bishop, 66), Jennie Nobis (Christine Latham, 71).
NJ SKY BLUE FC 1 - 0 CHICAGO RED STARS
Kerri Hanks scored a dramatic stoppage time goal in the 91st minute as Sky Blue downed Chicago Red Stars 1 -0 at Yurcak Field, New Jersey.
Both teams knew that the 3 pts were a must to keep themselves in contention for the playoffs.
The game started slow as both teams took the field for the third time in eight days on a hot afternoon in New Jersey.In the first half, neither team really threatened with Sky Blue FC earning the best chance – a great breakout started by Julianne Sitch with Kacey White feeding Natasha Kai in front for a shot that just missed the left post in the fifth minute.
In the second half, the teams threatened more with Chioma Igwe just missing the far post for the Red Stars on a flick header in the 57th minute.
The teams traded end-to-end chances in the 67th minute as Kai had a diving header blocked off a cross from Kacey White for Sky Blue FC. At the other end, Danesha Adams just missed the right post from 20 yards out. Two minutes later, Adams went close again blazing a shot over the crossbar from distance.
In the 72nd minute, Jen Buczkowski played through for Kai but Red Stars goalkeeper Caroline Jönsson made a spectacular point-blank save to keep game scoreless. Kai missed again eight minutes later as Hanks played in behind but her volley went over the goal.
The Red Stars last chance came on the 90th minute when Cristiane supplied a pinpoint cross into the box to Ella Maser who got her head to it and directed a looping header to the GK Jenni Branam’s left. Branam plucked it out of the air by her finger tips preventing Chicago the last minute winner.
It was from there that Sky Blue went up the field to earn a free-kick from a professional foul from Nikki Krzysik. Red Stars defended the free-kick but Sky Blue kept the ball alive in Chicago’s half with Keeley Dowling sending a ball on the floor through the penalty box. Hanks latches on to the ball takes a touch to get some space and launches a shot to Jonsson’s left. Goalie was left flat-footed. 1-0 Sky Blue.
The goal was the second of the season for Hanks, whose first goal came as a member of Saint Louis Athletica. The appearance was her third for Sky Blue FC – all off the bench.
With the win, Sky Blue FC finished the season series against the Red Stars with a 3-0-1 mark including a 4-0 advantage in goals. Both teams were missing multiple players in the game due to international call-ups.
Sky Blue FC 6-6-4 for 22 points – Now sit in 4th place in the WPS standings in the last playoff spot, 2 pts ahead of the Washington Freedom who are in 5th and 1pt behind 3rd place Saint Louis Athletica and 2pts behind 2nd place Boston Breakers.Sky Blue’s next two games are against Athletica and the breakers.
Chicago fell to 4-8-5 for 17 points and dropped to sixth place 3pts behind Washington and 5pts behind Sky Blue. With Chicago only having 3 games left they need to win all their games and hope the teams above them slip up.
Sky Blue are away to Saint Louis Athletica on Wednesday July 22nd. A win will see them jump up to 2nd place in the WPS standings.
The Red Stars are at home to the Washington Freedom on Sunday July 26th
Sky Blue FC head coach Kelly Lindsey
On today’s match
I think finally in the second half we started to stretch them a little bit and get around them and then through them. I thought both teams had good chances, which and it was pretty evenly matched throughout the game. Overall it was gutsy for both teams with missing a bunch of players.
On the back line
I really thought they pulled it together. They worked really well together and stayed united and we didn’t get pulled apart. I was very proud of our back line today.
Kerri Hanks
Chicago Red Stars Head Coach Emma Hayes
Losing is never easy, whether or it's a first-minute or last-minute goal. Unfortunately we got a bit disorganized at the end since we were chasing a goal so hard; obviously both teams needed to win this game. I don't think that the team was good enough today in the attack, and we weren't able to create a great deal of chances - Sky Blue FC deserves credit for that.
Sky Blue FC – Jenni Branam; Katie Hooker, Jen Buczkowski, Keeley Dowling (C), Meghan Schnur; Julianne Sitch (Kerri Hanks 62’), Yael Averbuch (Francielle 62’), Rosana (Noelle Keselica 84’), Collette McCallum; Kacey White, Natasha Kai.
Chicago Red Stars – Caroline Jonsson; Marian Dalmy, Jill Oakes, Ifeoma Dieke, Lydia Vandebergh (Nikki Krzysik 89’); Danesha Adams (Natalie Spilger 78’), Frida Oostburg (C), Chioma Igwe (Heather Garriock 69’), Brittany Klein; Cristiane, Ella Masar.
WASHINGTON FREEDOM 1 - 0 SAINT LOUIS ATHLETICA
The Washington Freedom took a much needed win against the Saint Louis Athletica at RFK Stadium, Washington on Saturday evening. In the double header with MLS’s DC United in front of a 4600 strong crowd, the Freedom missing Captain Abby Wambach , centre-back Cat Whitehill and GK Erin McLeod to international duty took the tie 1-0 to boost their chances in making the WPS playoffs.
The winning goal came in the 74th minute from the Japanese midfielder Homare Sawa who burst on to the ball in the box and struck the ball towards goal. The ball took a slight deflection of Athletica defender Kia McNeil to go past GK Jillian Loyden in for the missing Hope Solo.
Saint Louis started the 1st half well with defender Nikki Cross playing as a forward getting a chance in 10th minute. Amanda Cinalli crossing the ball into the box and Cross beating the Freedom GK Kati Jo Spisak but hitting the side netting.Cross got another chance on 20 minutes where she headed a ball towards goal, this time Spisak tipped the ball over the bar.
Eniola Aluko made several darting runs and was full of energy on the hot day even though she had just arrived back the day before from England after playing the full 90 minutes of England’s friendly against Iceland on Thursday.
Athletica looked the better side in the 1st half even though they were missing the industry and penetration in midfield of their captain Lori Chalupny. Washington with a much changed backline held strong.
Into the second half Washington saw more of the ball and Sonia Bompastor who was Captain in the absence of Wambach and Whitehill started to take control of the midfield.
The heat looked to play a big part as the play slowed down dramatically.
On the 64th minute the Freedom had drama of their own. Goalkeeper Spisak suffered a quad injury and GK Coach Nicci Wright had to come on. Wright was on the bench due to McLeod on international duty with Canada and Briana Scurry out injured.
Athletica failed to test the 36 yr old keeper and didn’t create many chances in the 2nd half.
In the 74th minute Kendall Fletcher lost the ball at the top of the box and Sawa latched on to the ball to drive into the penalty box to score the goal giving the Freedom the Win.
With the win, Washington (5-6-5, 20 points) jumped into fourth place in the WPS standings. Saint Louis (7-6-2, 23 points) remain in 2nd.This could all change later this weekend though.
Washington has four games left, while Saint Louis has five left. Three playoff spots are still up for grabs. Washington returns to action Sunday, July 26th, playing at the Chicago Red Stars. Saint Louis takes the pitch again Wednesday, July 22nd against Sky Blue FC.
“Near the end of the game, they weren’t able to put on any pressure and get any clear chances. Defensively we were solid; it was nice to have a coach back there organizing things,” said Freedom head coach Jim Gabarra.
“It’s so different when you’re out of it…it’s more of a mental issue,” Nicci Wright said of her abrupt return from retirement. “I retired for a reason, because I wanted to coach.”
“There’s a feeling of relief when [the ball] makes it into your hands…[you] get that first save and you’re kinda like, I’m fine, I’m okay.”
"It's pretty frustrating," said defender Tina Ellertson. "We really wanted to get a win because it's the last time we play them. We thought we were prepared and united together, but we didn't capitalize when we should and they did. It's unfortunate."
"We tried to (challenge her)," said Athletica forward Eniola Aluko, "but we couldn't even get the ball to the top (of the penalty box). It was tough to get to areas where we could shoot. It was frustrating."
Lineup:
Washington Freedom : Kati Jo Spisak(Nicci Wright 64); Jill Gilbeau, Alex Singer, Becky Sauerbrunn; Sarah Senty ;Lori Lindsey, Sonia Bompastor (C) , Homare Sawa, Alex Krieger(Joanna Lohman 79 ); Lisa De Vanna, Rebacca Moros.(Allie Long 59)
Saint Louis Athletica: Jillian Loyden;Stephanie Logterman (Kia McNeill 63), Sarah Larsson, Tina Ellertson (C), Elise Weber; Lisa Stoia, Amanda Cinalli (Erin Walter 46), Angie Woznuk, Kendall Fletcher;Nikki Cross (Sarah Walsh 68), Eniola Aluko
Saturday 18 July 2009
AUSTRALIA DAY!!
So i've been accused of being biased in my support for my fellow countrywomen(The Brits) in the WPS from some of my colleagues..mainly my Australian colleague Bluey..no actually he is called Tom.(Thommo ! ) haha.
Anyway...as it's the summer of the Ashes - (cricket - England v Australia) and all is fair in love and war, this post is dedicated to the Matilda's in the WPS. Fair Dinkum!
Heather Garriock- Chicago Red StarsIs the most capped Australian on the current team(Captain Cheryl Salisbury has retired on 151 caps) with 111 with 19 goals scored.
Heather has been to the 2003 and 2007 World Cup scoring in both.
Plays for Sydney FC in Australia's professional league the Westfield W-League.
2008 wasn't a good year with Sydney FC as Garriock their Captain was out injured for most of the season but managed to tally 4 appearances and 1 goal.
Garriock was drafted to Chicago Red Stars but again been sidelined with injuries having only played 20 minutes in 2 games so far.
Top midfielder when healthy is one of the best in the world with her industry and take control.
Lydia Williams - Chicago Red StarsBack-up goalie behind no1 Melissa Barbieri at only 21 yrs of age Williams looks set to make a splash in Australian women's soccer.
Already with 18 national caps, Williams is well thought of as she is strong, agile and quick.
The starting GK for Canberra United in the Westfield W-League , Williams took her team to the final, missing out on the 2008 Inaugural Championship to the Brisbane Roar.Williams played in all 12 games.
Drafted to Chicago Red Stars to continue her learning of the game as understudy to top Swedish GK Caroline Jonsson.
Sarah Walsh - Saint Louis AthleticaExplosive forward Walsh made her mark for the Matilda's at the 2004 Olympic Games and 2007 World Cup.
57 Caps 26 goals. It could have been , should have been many more if it wasn't for various knee injuries and a broken leg. Walsh has had 2 ACL injuries. Despite this she is one of the fastest forwards in the world.
Famous in Australia for scoring the 1st goal of the Matilda's 2007 World Cup campaign and her war paint on her face.(see picture -right).Walsh is a favourite with fans who like her fun nature and bundles of energy.
Plays for her home town Sydney FC in Australia's Westfield W-League, although only played 2 games due to injury.
Drafted to NJ Sky Blue FC, Walsh played 5 games scoring 1 goal but has been blighted by a hamstring injury.
In June Walsh was traded to Saint Louis Athletica. No appearances as of yet for them.
Lisa DeVanna - Washington Freedom
At age 24 De Vanna is a seasoned pro for the Matilda's.
58 Caps and 20 goals she combines with Sarah Walsh to make one of the fastest forward lines in Women's soccer worldwide.
Usualy coming of the bench DeVanna is known for her explosive pace , directness to goal and impact on a game.
Top scorer for the Matilda's in the 2007 World Cup with 4 goals. Named in the 2007 World Cup All Star team and was the 2nd ever Australian to be nominated for 2007 Fifa World Player of The Year.
Played for the Perth Glory in the Westfield W-League in 2008 scoring 3 goals in 7 matches.
Drafted to the Washington Freedom in 2009. DeVanna has improved her game and fitness by playing 15 matches and scoring 5 goals.
Collette McCallum - NJ Sky Blue FC
Scottish born Australian ( Glasgow) , McCallum is recognised as being one of the most talented up in coming midfielders in women's soccer.
49 caps 7 goals for the Matilda's she made her mark in 2007 World Cup scoring a goal against Canada helping to put Australia through to the Quarter-Finals.
Possessed with a lethal left foot McCallum has the vision and the ability to pick out teamates with one pass. She is also a dead ball specialist. A midfield maestro for the Matilda's McCallum supplies the passes for her speedy teamates.
2008 won the W-League Championship with Pali Blues.
Played for the Perth Glory in Australia's pro League Westfield W-League also in 2008.
Post Discovery for NJ Sky Blue FC. 15 games played 2 assists.
The Matilda's in WPS. A talented bunch that will surely make their mark in the 2011 World Cup along with the rest of their national teamates. With the professional Westfield W-League starting their 2nd season in October this year more gems will likely be found for the national team making Australia a team to watch in the soccer world.
Most if not all the WPS player will go back and play for their Australian clubs after the WPS season is finished to once again help their sport grow in the land down under.
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