SYA Girls Receive USWNT VIP Experience at PPL Park



PPL Park - USWNT vs China 05/27/2012

Chester, PA - Sunday evening VA Soccer News was at PPL Park in Chester, PA along with Southwestern Youth Association (SYA) who took a contingent of the youth clubs girls players up to Philadelphia to watch the U.S. Women's National Team compete against China in a pre-olympic international friendly.

These lucky young SYA players along with some parents and coaches where treated to a VIP experience, greeting the USWNT players as they came on the field, watching warm-ups up close at field level, and escorting players from both teams onto pitch to kick off the match. It was a magical experience, and many of the USWNT players chatted with and gave autographs to the SYA girls.

U.S. Women’s National Team Defeats China 4-1 in Front of Sold-Out Crowd of 18,573 at PPL Park in Chester, Pa.

U.S. midfielder Heather O'Reilly was hilarious as she related crowd noise to youth parents yelling at players during games (see video below).



 
VA Soccer News would like to thank Eric Hunsaker (BlackLabFilm+TV) who has produced other amazing videos for us in the past for this stunning video, U.S. Soccer, and finally everyone who was part of the SYA group on a beautiful soccer day in Philly.

VA Soccer News Tweeting Live from PPL Park, USWNT vs. China

Virginia Online Soccer News will be providing live updates and photos from PPL Park in Philladelphia during tonights U.S. Women's match against China.

View of PPL Park before U.S. WNT vs. China, May 27, 2012

Follow our live updates on Twitter: @VASoccerNews

Clicke Here to watch live stream of U.S. WNT Against China on ussoccer.com

Fans of United - Episode 12: Olsen has United Gunning for No. 1 Spot

The latest episode of Fans of United is out now. In episode 12 hosts Devon McTavish, Eric Hunsaker, and Chris Wimmer discuss recent wins by the Black-and-Red over Colorado and Toronto, led by Dero and Salihi.

The podcast crew also look ahead to Saturday's D.C. rematch against New England as United set their sights on the No. 1 spot in atop the MLS Eastern Conference.

 

Download on iTunes: Episode 12

Android users listen Free on Stitcher (use promo code - FansOfUnited) : Click Here

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KICKERS DEFEAT AEGEAN HAWKS 4-0 IN U.S. OPEN CUP; HOST D.C. UNITED IN THIRD ROUND MAY 29

BOYDS, MD – The Richmond Kickers advanced to the Third Round of the U.S. Open Cup with a convincing 4-0 victory over the Dulles Sportsplex Aegean Hawks FC of the U.S. Adult Soccer Association Tuesday night.  Early goals by Christopher Agorsor and Gerson Dos Santos gave the visiting Kickers the lead that they held throughout the match.  Agorsor netted his second tally of the night two minutes before Nozomi Hiroyama rounded out the scoreline in the 84^th minute to earn the Kickers a Major League Soccer match-up, as they play host to D.C. United for the first time in four years at Richmond City Stadium next Tuesday, May 29 at 7 p.m.

The Kickers set the tone for the Second Round match in the 20^th minute when newcomer Agorsor netted his second goal of the season.  Defender Henry Kalungi played a long ball from midfield that was flicked on by forward Jason Yeisley to an awaiting Agorsor seven yards out.  The Kickers newcomer sprung free from his defender with a quick turn and fired a low driven ball to the far corner.

Eight minutes later, the visitors struck again when Mike Callahan played a corner back to Luke Vercollone on the right wing.  Settling the ball with one touch, Vercollone delivered an outswinger into the crowded box, connecting with Dos Santos in the air as the Brazilian’s perfect header soared just inside the upper 90.

The Hawks nearly leveled the score with two dangerous chances just before the break but were left helpless as their misfired shots narrowly missed the target.

An uneventful second half gave way to another pair of Kickers goals in rapid fire succession following the 80-minute mark.  First, Dos Santos crushed a free kick from 20 yards that ricocheted off of Agorsor’s heel, diverting to the near post to beat the ‘keeper in the 82^nd minute. 

Then, Hiroyama registered the fourth and final goal of the night two minutes later when he received the ball from Bobby Foglesong at the halfway line.  He drove down the field, dribbling 45 yards through the Hawks defense and made no mistake with a well-placed shot to the near post from 14 yards.

The Kickers return to regular season action this Saturday, May 26 when they host the Wilmington Hammerheads at 7 p.m. at Richmond City Stadium before hosting D.C. United of Major League Soccer in the U.S. Open Cup Third Round on Tuesday, May 29.  Tickets are $15, youth and adult and are on sale now at RichmondKickers.com.  For group tickets, please contact Cody Johnson at 804-644-5425 x 311 or cody@richmondkickers.com.  All-Access Passes will be accepted for this match; however, Family Passes, Adult Pro Passes, Youth Pro Passes and Flex-Tickets will not be valid. 

Box Score             First Half         Second Half             Final

Aegean Hawks              0                      0                         0

Richmond                     2                      2                         4

Scoring Summary

20^th minute: Richmond: Christopher Agorsor (Jason Yeisley)

30^th minute: Richmond: Gerson Dos Santos (Luke Vercollone)

82^nd minute: Richmond: Christopher Agorsor (Gerson Dos Santos)

84^th minute: Richmond: Nozomi Hiroyama (Bobby Foglesong)

Lineups

Kickers: GK Ronnie Pascale, William Yomby, Henry Kalungi, Sascha Görres, Shane Johnson, Gerson Dos Santos, Luke Vercollone, Mike Callahan, Ryan Heins, Christopher Agorsor, Jason Yeisley (Nozomi Hiroyama – 59’)

Cautions:

70^th minute: Gerson Dos Santos (Richmond)

Ejections:

None

Referee:                                                Charles Carson

Assistant Referees:                               Matthew Kreitzer, Alexander Luttmann

Fourth Official:                         Adrian Krell, III

Attendance:                                          150

Weather:                                               Cloudy, 72º

Dulles Sportsplex Aegean Hawks FC get first-ever Open Cup win



Dulles Sportsplex Aegean Hawks FC

 The USASA's Dulles Sportsplex Aegean Hawks FC garnered its first-ever U.S. Open Cup victory with a 3-1 win against the Carolina Dynamo of the Premier Development League at the Maryland SoccerPlex Stadium in Boyds, Md. The Aegean Hawks advance to the second round on Tuesday, May 22, to face the USL PRO's Richmond Kickers - an organization well known for its 1995 U.S. Open Cup Final victory against the El Paso Patriots.

Here is the 2012 US Open Cup Bracket

For results and schedule updates of the 2012 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, visit ussoccer.com.

Kickers face Riverhounds Friday

KICKERS TRAVEL TO PITTSBURGH FRIDAY

Watch the Champions League Final with the Kickers on Saturday, May 19

Richmond Kickers

RICHMOND, VA – (Tuesday, May 15, 2012) – The Richmond Kickers head north to take on the Pittsburgh Riverhounds this weekend before returning to Richmond to host a UEFA Champions League Final game-watching party on Saturday, May 19 at Buffalo Wild Wings in Midlothian.  Previously scheduled to play on Saturday, the Kickers versus Riverhounds match will take place on Friday, May 18 at 7 p.m. at Chartiers Valley Stadium. 

“Our long term goal is simple,” commented Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Head Coach and Director of Soccer.  “Improve each day, qualify for the playoffs then perform at our best when it matters. A strong performance on Friday is definitely needed if we are to accomplish that feat.”

The Kickers meet the Riverhounds for the first time this season, after posting a 2-1 record against their USL PRO rivals in 2011.  The two clubs last faced off in Pittsburgh on July 30, 2011 when the Riverhounds avenged two earlier season losses by shutting out the Kickers 2-0 on their home turf.  Notching a 2-1 victory at City Stadium early in the season, the Kickers later ousted the Riverhounds from the 2011 U.S. Open Cup.  Midfielder David Bulow and forward Matthew Delicâte each added a pair of goals to the 4-1 scoreline to send the Kickers through to the next round, en route to a historic Semifinals finish.

With an early season record of 1-2-3, the Kickers have posted three consecutive ties during regular season action.  Last time out, back to back goals on either side of the half saw the Kickers battle the Harrisburg City Islanders to a 2-2 draw.  The Kickers took an early lead when Delicâte and USL PRO Team of the Week honoree Christopher Agorsor teamed up in the 8th minute before conceding a goal to Harrisburg seconds later.  The teams went back and forth once more in the second half when Agorsor recorded his first goal of the season before City Islanders newcomer Yann Ekra notched the equalizer two minutes later.

Meanwhile, the Riverhounds are searching for their first win since a 2-0 victory over Dayton on April 21.  Dropping narrow losses to three of the league’s toughest teams on the road, Charleston, Wilmington and Orlando, the Riverhounds most recently conceded a 3-0 defeat to the Los Angeles Blues last weekend.  Prior to Friday’s match-up against the Kickers, the Riverhounds must first travel to Harrisburg on Wednesday, May 16.

Overall, the Kickers hold a 13-8-4 record over the Riverhounds, with a rivalry dating back to 1999 when the two franchises competed in the USL First Division.  Swapping home field advantage on Friday, July 13, the Kickers host the Riverhounds at 7 p.m. at Richmond City Stadium to conclude the two-game regular season series.

UEFA Champions League Final Viewing Party

The Richmond Kickers pro players, coaches and staff are pleased to host a Viewing Party at Buffalo Wild Wings on Saturday, May 19 to watch two of Europe’s greatest teams compete for club soccer’s biggest prize when Germany’s FC Bayern Munich host Chelsea FC in the UEFA Champions League Final.

With 34 high definition TVs and eight 10-foot projection screens, Buffalo Wild Wings is conveniently located at 12056 Southshore Pointe Drive in Midlothian. Fans and players are encouraged to wear a Kickers jersey and join the pro team to watch this historic match up when it kicks off at 2:30 p.m.

The Kickers Viewing Party Series will continue on June 10th for the Spain versus Italy match at Buffalo Wild Wings 7801 W. Broad Street and will conclude on July 1st for the Euro 2012 Championship at Buffalo Wild Wings 1090 Virginia Center Parkway.  Learn more at RichmondKickers.com.

Tecate is Looking for a Soccer Correspond​ent Team

TECATE LAUNCHES NATION-WIDE SEARCH FOR

OFFICIAL SOCCER CORRESPONDENT TEAM

Adult Fans Encouraged to Apply for a Chance to Cover Fútbol Game of their Choice in Mexico or U.S.

NEW YORK (May 15, 2012) – Tecate, cerveza con carácter, today launched the national search for a group of soccer fans with enough character and skills to travel to and report on a soccer game of the team’s choice in Mexico or the U.S. As the “Tecate Correspondent Team”, the selected individuals will receive round-trip airfare, accommodations, tickets to the game and an opportunity to share their passion for the sport via the brand’s official Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/Tecate.

“Tecate knows that without fans, soccer would be nothing but a game. It is the aficionados’ cheers, rituals, and enthusiasm that feed the energy of the stadium and elevate the team’s spirits,” said Felix Palau, vice president of marketing for Tecate. “By searching for and selecting the most ardent soccer fans in the country, we will not only complement our long-standing support of sports con carácter, but give consumers a platform through which to celebrate and share their appreciation for fútbol.”

To apply for the opportunity to become the “Tecate Correspondent Team”, a group of three adults 21 or older must register on Tecate’s Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/Tecate) between May 1 and August 26, 2012. Applicants will have the opportunity to prove their ability to communicate their unique insight, perspective and passion for soccer to others through their blogging and reporting skills, by completing a short online application. The top five eligible groups will be interviewed by a panel of experts, who will select the most qualified trio to capture the excitement of a soccer game of their choice in Mexico or in the U.S. through articles, photos and videos.

Details of the search will be communicated to consumers via thematic point of sale materials at retail locations throughout the country. Featuring the tagline “Deja que tu Pasión te Lleve” or “Let Your Passion Take You”, and elaborated by Dieste, they include mass-displays, posters, price cards and mail-in rebates on the purchase of Tecate or Tecate Light product and related snacks. For complete eligibility requirements and rules, please visit www.Facebook.com/Tecate.

Additionally, this summer in key markets like California, Texas and Illinois, Tecate will celebrate the carácter of soccer through a series of exhibition games featuring some of the top teams in the Mexican Primera División (First Division); the nation’s largest and most prestigious amateur Hispanic soccer tournament, Tecate Copa Alianza; and special appearances by Mexican fútbol legend Jared Borgetti and Univision Radio’s Eddie “Piolín” Sotelo.

For more information or to interview a brand executive on the search for the “Tecate Correspondent Team” or the brand’s soccer activations throughout the summer, please contact Alejandra Calva or Melissa Carrion at (212) 219-0321.

Hotspur Win Season Opener against Royals

Fredericksburg Hotspur hold on for season-opening win


By Tom Leiss


FAIRFAX, Va.—The Fredericksburg Hotspur opened their 2012 Premier Development League season with a 3-2 win against the Northern Virginia Royals on Sunday at Fairfax High School.

Fredericksburg (1-0) jumped on top early with a goal in the fourth minute and built its advantage to 3-0 by the 51st minute, before having to fight to hang on for the victory in the closing minutes.

Hotspur coach Grover Gibson said overall the result was good for the first game, but that there were many things—good and bad—from the match that the team can build on going forward.

“It took [us] about 10 or 15 minutes to get into the game and then I think we found our feet and did well,” Gibson said. “And then there was a time at about the 75th minute where we swam a little bit. But otherwise I’m pleased.

“I think if you take the positives that you need to make it a learning experience and they realize that we need to finish our chances and we need to play to zero … If they take those points and learn from them then it’ll be a perfect experience. … We won. We got three points. … And then take some of the negatives and build off of those and then it’ll be exactly what we needed.”

The Hotspur took a 1-0 lead in the fourth minute when defender Dale Robins-Bailey (James Madison University) redirected a corner kick from Don Smart into the Royals’ net from close range.

After the early goal, Fredericksburg countered Northern Virginia’s high pressure strategy with a possession game that eventually allowed them to slow the action down at times and look for openings in the Royals’ defense.

During that stretch, the Royals (0-1) looked to turn turnovers into counterattacks as they tried to level the score. However, they were continually thwarted by a Hotspur defense that was led by a strong performance from Grant Silvester (University of Virginia).

Fredericksburg was able to extend its advantage with five minutes left in the opening half on a quick counterattack of its own.

Tishan Hanley took the ball over in the midfield before feeding Smart on the left side of the box. Smart took a couple touches before calmly finishing past Royals’ goalie Joel Helmick, allowing the Hotspur to take a 2-0 lead into the intermission.

Smart caused trouble for the Royals’ all game with his darting runs through their defense and later nearly added another scored with a long-range blast that ricocheted off the crossbar.

“I think Don was virtually man of the match,” Gibson said. “He was always looking for the goal. He was always quick. He was fast. He was working behind the ball. He was a complete player for us.”

The guests quickly extended their advantage to 3-0 six minutes after the restart.

Josh West (College of William & Mary) tossed a quick throw in near midfield over the high-pressing Northern Virginia defense to and onrushing Hanley. The St. Kitts and Nevis international then buried a shot from the right side of the box into the left side panel of the Royals’ goal for the three-goal cushion.

Despite the Hotspur building what seemed like a comfortable lead, Northern Virginia did not let up on its high-pressing tactic and it eventually paid dividends.

Eight minutes after Hanley’s tally, Mitchell got behind the Fredericksburg defense and fired a shot that beat Hotspur goalie Colin Newcity (James Madison University), but caromed off the crossbar.

In the 66th minute, Northern Virginia was finally able to brake through the Hotspur defense. After earning a free kick from about 25 yards out, A.J. Sheta buried a shot into the upper right corner to cut the Fredericksburg advantage to 3-1.

The Royals then cut their deficit to one goal in the 81st minute when they were awarded a penalty kick. Despite Newcity getting a piece of the shot, Mo Hughes converted the spot kick to make the score 3-2.

From there, Fredericksburg battled to hold to onto its advantage and escaped with a 3-2 victory, giving Gibson a win in his head coaching debut.

Despite the scare in the closing minutes, Smart was pleased with the team’s performance.

“We had a three goal lead so we kind of laid back a bit, but we finally got the job done toward the end of the game,” he said. “We held out and everybody worked hard the same way.”

The Hotspur hope to carry the momentum built from the win into Saturday’s home opener. Fredericksburg will host the Virginia Beach Piranhas, at 5:30 p.m., at the University of Mary Washington, as the second part of a doubleheader. To open the day’s action, the W-League Fredericksburg Impact will take on the Northern Virginia Majestics at 2 p.m. Admission is free to both games.

Dulles Sportsplex Aegean Hawks prepare for U.S. Open Cup

The Dulles Sportsplex Aegean Hawks are back in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup for the third time in the last six years. If you think the team name is a mouthful, you’re right, but as the club’s manager Jon Knight is quick to point out, the Hawks wouldn’t exist if it wasn’t for their main sponsor that supports his pay-to-play club from the Washington DC area.

Full Story: TheCup.us - Meet the USASA: Dulles Sportsplex Aegean Hawks from Washington D.C.

Dave Johnson of CSN Talks D.C. United with Fans of United Podcast Crew

Fans of United hosts Devon McTavish, Eric Hunsaker, and Chris Wimmer chat with Dave Johnson, D.C. United's television play-by-play voice for CSN. The guys discuss the current road swing, Ben Olsen's influence on the roster, and the chances for United to end the franchises current playoff drought.

The crew also look ahead to United's match against Houston as the Dynamo open their new stadium, BBVA Compass Park.

Connect with Fans of United:

To download CLICK HERE or for iTunes: CLICK HERE

Kickers in USL Action Saturday Against Harrisburg

KICKERS HOST HARRISBURG SATURDAY

Richmond SPCA Paws on the Pitch Night at City Stadium, 7pm

RICHMOND, VA – (Tuesday, May 8, 2012) – The Richmond Kickers return to Richmond City Stadium to host the Harrisburg City Islanders and Richmond SPCA Paws on the Pitch Night this Saturday, May 12 at 7:00 p.m.

The Kickers hold a 9-3-5 record over the City Islanders, having last met on June 17, 2011 at City Stadium for a lively affair that saw 25 shots on goal.  The Kickers were stopped three times by the crossbar before eventually succumbing to a 1-0 loss after allowing the lone goal of the match during first half stoppage time.  The two clubs battled to a 1-1 draw in Harrisburg early in 2011 and meet again this weekend for the first time during the 2012 campaign.

Last time out, Kickers midfielder David Bulow converted a stoppage time penalty kick to earn a point on the road in a 1-1 draw against the Dayton Dutch Lions last Saturday night.  Trailing for 90 minutes, the Kickers conceded a goal in the second minute when forward Gibson Bardsley connected on a Joel DeLass cross. 

“The Dayton game was a major disappointment for all concerned, but although we did not get the result we needed, all credit to the team for digging deep and battling until the dying minutes to earn the draw,” commented Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Head Coach and Director of Soccer.  “We have outshot every opponent we have faced so far but have yet to convert our chances into goals. From past experience, Kickers teams have found success from having multiple players contribute to scoring goals. This week will be spent with that one focus in mind as we look to kick start the season.”

Meanwhile, the City Islanders dropped a 2-1 decision to the Charlotte Eagles during their regular season home opener last Friday.  A one hour, 22-minute lightning delay gave way to a back-and-forth affair that saw Harrisburg squander the lead, conceding two Eagles goals in a span of seven minutes.

Richmond and Harrisburg are scheduled to meet twice more this season, with the Kickers making the trek to Skyline Sports Complex on Friday, June 1 before returning to City Stadium to close out the Kickers home season on Saturday, August 11.

Players to Watch

Kickers:  Newcomer Christopher Agorsor (#15) recently signed with the Kickers after stints with the Philadelphia Union and Real Salt Lake.  Following a prolific high school career, the speedy forward made 20 appearances at the University of Virginia before training with Manchester United and CD Nacional in Portugal.  Midfielder David Bulow (#10) notched his first goal of the season last weekend, converting a stoppage time penalty kick to level the score for the Kickers against the Dayton Dutch Lions.  The fan favorite finished second on the team in scoring in 2011 with 10 goals and three assists for 23 points overall.  Rookie defender Shane Johnson (#3) has made an immediate impact with the starting lineup out of Longwood University, starting and playing every minute of all five matches this season.  A native of Ashburn, Virginia, Johnson notched three goals and six assists, while contributing to 17 shutouts in 71 appearances during his collegiate career.

City Islanders:  In his sophomore season with the City Islanders, former New York Red Bulls midfielder Sainey Tourey (#20) is picking up where he left off, adding an assist during Harrisburg’s 2-1 loss to Charlotte after leading the team in 2011 with six assists.  Also looking to add speed and firepower is newcomer Yann Erka (#7).  Signing with Harrisburg just prior to the 2012 season, the Ivory Coast native spent the 2011 campaign with the French Ligue 2 side Châteauroux.  Veteran defender Dustin Bixler (#3) returns for his eighth season and will once again anchor the Harrisburg back line that allowed just 30 goals and posted six shutouts en route to the USL PRO finals last season.

Richmond SPCA Paws on the Pitch Night

The Richmond Kickers are proud to partner with the Richmond SPCA for the fifth annual Paws on the Pitch Night when they host the Harrisburg City Islanders this Saturday, May 12 at 7:00 p.m.  Fans are encouraged to bring their four-legged companions along with them to enjoy pet-friendly vendors, the SPCA Tail Wag’n adoption vehicle and professional soccer at Richmond City Stadium. 

The evening benefits Central Virginia’s oldest non-profit, no-kill humane organization dedicated to the principle that every life is precious.  As a national leader in humane education and care, the Richmond SPCA is aggressively tackling the problem of pet overpopulation through adoption, rehabilitation and spay/neuter.  The organization saves the lives of more than 3,000 homeless animals each year and cares for approximately 350 cats and dogs daily.

Order tickets in advance at RichmondKickers.com.

D.C. United Academy Update

D.C. United Academy Update

United’s U-16’s extend unbeaten streak to seven matches

Washington, D.C. (May 7, 2012) – Coming off a one-week layoff, D.C. United’s Youth Academy teams resumed their 2012 USSDA run this past weekend, with the U-16’s and U-18’s facing Mid-Atlantic Division rivals Potomac and Baltimore Bays Chelsea.

United’s U-18 squad kicked off the weekend with a resounding 4-0 victory over Potomac on Saturday, May 5. A brace by Marcus Salandy-Defour, a tally from Suliman Dainkeh and a penalty kick-goal from Collin Martin led the Black-and-Red to victory. Goalkeeper Allan Flott was also influential by providing security from the back as he recorded the shutout in goal.

Unfortunately, the U-18’s were not able to earn back-to-back wins, as they fell 2-0 to Baltimore Bays Chelsea on Sunday. In a hard-fought match, Baltimore scored both goals in the final three minutes of the match. 

“We were pleased with the team’s performance this weekend,” said United U-18 Head Coach Nolan Sheldon. “On Saturday, we took our chances well and were well organized in defense. We were a bit unfortunate on Sunday, giving up both goals in the final moments of the match.”

United’s U-16 team continued its good form by extending its unbeaten streak to seven matches this past weekend. On Saturday, the U-16’s defeated Potomac by 1-0 with a goal from Nigel Robinson, assisted by Ian Harkes. On Sunday, the Black-and-Red earned a 0-0 draw against Baltimore Bays Chelsea. The U-16’s were able to record a shutout despite playing down a man due to a 60th minute ejection.

“Overall, we were proud that the boys were able to get two shutouts on the weekend,” said United U-16 Head Coach Tom Torres. “I was happy for the ten players that were on the field vs. Baltimore. They worked very hard and had several chances to score, despite the disadvantage. All the players showed a tremendous amount of determination over the weekend.”

D.C. United’s U-18 and U-16 teams will continue with USSDA action next weekend, with matches against FC Delco on Saturday, May 12 and PA Classics on Sunday, May 13.

Virginia players Basinger, Sullivan help U.S. U-17 WNT defeat Mexico

Virginia players Brittany Basinger (FC Virginia; Purcellville, Va.) and Andi Sullivan (Bethesda SC; Lorton, Va.) helped the U.S. U-17 Women's National team defeat Mexico in a 3-0 shutout during Group B action of the 2012 CONCACAF Women's Championship in Guatemala.



U.S. UNDER-17 WNT DEFEATS MEXICO 3-0 TO WIN GROUP B AT

2012 CONCACAF WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP

 

• USA Will Face Panama in Semifinal on May 10 for Berth to 2012 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup
• Summer Green Nets All Three Goals to Notch Her Second Hat Trick of the Tournament
• With a Tournament-Leading Nine Goals, Green Matches Lindsey Horan's Nine-Goal Performance from the 2010 CONCACAF U-17 Women's Championship After Just Three Matches

 

GUATEMALA CITY, Guatemala (May 7, 2012) - The U.S. Under-17 Women's National Team scored three times in the first half to put an early end to any potential drama and defeated Mexico 3-0 to win Group B at the 2012 CONCACAF U-17 Women's Championship. The victory earned the USA a semifinal matchup with Group A runner-up Panama for a berth to the 2012 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.

 

U.S. forward Summer Green scored all three goals to up her tournament total to nine, matching the U.S. record for a U-17 World Cup Qualifying stage after just three matches. Forward Lindsey Horan scored nine times in five matches at the 2010 CONCACAF U-17 Women's Championship in Costa Rica.

Green will have two more games to eclipse Horan's mark starting with the semifinal as the USA takes on Panama on Thursday, May 10, at 3:30 p.m. ET while Canada will meet Mexico in the other semifinal at 6:30 p.m. ET. The winners of the semifinals and the winner of the third-place match earn CONCACAF's three berths to the third FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, which will be staged in Azerbaijan from Sept. 22-Oct. 13.

Fans can watch both semifinals on CONCACAF.com and follow the action from the U.S. game on ussoccer.com's MatchTracker and on Twitter @ussoccer_ynt.

"The mentality was excellent," said U.S. head coach Albertin Montoya. "This is a game we were prepared for and we were looking forward to playing, but Mexico is an excellent team and they showed why they are such a strong opponent. They made it very difficult for us, but fortunately for the U.S. right now we have a forward that is very dangerous and on a hot streak in Summer Green. She put three away in the first half and that made the difference in the game. In the second half, we were able to slow the game down and hopefully save our legs a little bit."

The U.S. and Mexico entered Monday's Group B finale with both teams winning their first two matches in shutout fashion, but the USA burst Mexico's defense with three goals in the first 36 minutes.

The first came on a penalty kick - the USA's first of the tournament - after Margaret Purce dribbled into the right side of the penalty box in the 16th minute and tried to split the Mexican defenders Paulina Solis and Celinna Montano. Solis was called for the bump that sent Purce sprawling to the artificial surface and Green stepped up to drill home the kick in the 17th minute, placing her shot past diving Mexico goalkeeper Gabriela Paz into the lower right corner.

Green struck again in the 32nd minute when defender Gabbi Miranda ran under a long ball and flicked it onto Green with her head. Green latched on to the ball and attacked down the left side, blowing past her defender towards the near post before slotting her right-footed shot just inside of the right post for a 2-0 lead.

Green completed her hat trick in the 36th minute when she ran past three Mexican defenders straight up the middle and shot hard from about 23 yards out, skipping the low shot just inside the left post. Midfielder Sarah Robinson initiated the attack, stepping in to win a ball in midfield that started the counter before playing a perfect pass to the streaking Green.

A heavy rain fell on the match for the second part of the first half, making the turf slick for the rest of the game. The U.S. spent the second half focusing on possession, with an occasional offensive flurry, but also limited Mexico to just four total shots.

The USA nearly created a fourth goal in the 83rd minute with back-to-back chances. Substitute Toni Payne provided the buildup with a cross from the left wing that found Green in the right side of the penalty area. She struck a hard shot back across the goal but Mexico's Montano cleared it from the line. Substitute Joanna Boyles had a follow-up shot from distance but could not put the shot on frame.

Mexico did mount a few attacks in the match, but the U.S. back line was stellar and goalkeeper Jane Campbell did not have to make a difficult save, being tested only one on a set play when she came far out of her goal to punch a service away.

The USA defense did a fantastic job with Mexico's long services, which came fast and furious in the first half, as center-backs Mandy Freeman and Maddie Bauer, and outside backs Brittany Basinger and Gabbi Miranda won almost every ball in the air. The USA also maintained a good balance on both ends of the pitch, tracking back well when Mexico tried to counter attack and always keeping strong numbers behind the ball.

After sitting out in the USA's second group game against Trinidad & Tobago, U.S. midfielder Lauren Kaskie and Purce were given starts while forward Amber Munerlyn got her first start and minutes of the tournament up top with Purce and Green. All had impactful matches with Kaskie and Munerlyn eventually giving way to Boyles and Morgan Stanton, respectively. Payne came on for Robinson in the 68th minute, giving the crafty U.S. midfielder her first break of the tournament.

- U.S. Under-17 Women's National Team Match Report -

Match: United States U-17 Women's National Team vs. Mexico U-17 WNT

Date: May 7, 2012

Competition: 2012 CONCACAF U-17 Women's Championship - Group B

Venue: Estadio Cementos Progreso; Guatemala City, Guatemala

Kickoff: 4:30 p.m. MT (6:30 p.m. ET)

Attendance: 500

Weather: 70 degrees, rain, windy

Scoring Summary:    1          2          F

USA                           3          0          3

MEX                           0          0          0

USA - Summer Green (penalty kick)             17th minute

USA - Summer Green (Gabbi Miranda)          31

USA - Summer Green (Sarah Robinson)        36

Lineups:

USA: 1-Jane Campbell; 3-Brittany Basinger, 5-Maddie Bauer, 16-Mandy Freeman, 6-Gabbi Miranda; 10-Morgan Andrews (capt.), 17-Sarah Robinson (19-Toni Payne, 68), 14-Lauren Kaskie (12-Joanna Boyles, 56); 4-Amber Munerlyn (11-Morgan Stanton, 83), 8-Summer Green, 15-Margaret Purce

Subs not used: 2-Lizzy Raben, 7-Andi Sullivan, 9-Emily Bruder, 18-Cassie Miller

Not Available: 13-Darian Jenkins, 20-Morgan Reid

Head Coach: Albertin Montoya

MEX:   1-Gabriela Paz, 2-Jaquelina Rodriguez, 3-Jessica Valadez, 5-Paulina Solis, 7-Taylor Alvarado, 8-Karla Nieto, 9-Luz Duarte (19-Jessica Morales, 78), 10-Jenny Chiu (capt.) (6-Michelle Gonzalez, 56), 11-Hallie Hernandez (15-Natalie Rivas, 81), 14-Celinna Montano, 20-Cynthia Pineda

Subs not used: 4-Greta Espinoza, 12-Adela Meza, 16-Mariana Cadena, 17-Vivian Vega

Not Available: 13-Fernanda Perez, 18-Cassandra Reyes

Head Coach: Leonardo Cuellar

Stats Summary: USA / MEX

Shots:21 / 4

Shots on Goal:9 / 3

Saves: 3 / 5

Corner Kicks: 1 / 1

Fouls: 10 / 13

Offside: 2 / 1

Misconduct Summary:

None

Officials:

Referee: Michelle Pye (CAN)

Assistant Referee: Suzanne Morriset (CAN)

Assistant Referee: Marisol Salazar (GUA)

Fourth Official: Alicia Villatoro (GUA)

ussoccer.com Woman of the Match: Summer Green

Local Teams Set for First Round 2012 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Action

A few teams from D.C., Maryland, and Virginia are set to compete in this years Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

Wikipedia: The tournament is the oldest ongoing national soccer competition in the U.S. and is presently open to all United States Soccer Federation affiliated teams, from amateur adult club teams to the professional clubs of Major League Soccer.

FIRST ROUND - Tuesday, May 15

Carolina Dynamo (PDL) at Dulles Sportsplex Aegean Hawks FC

 (USASA): Maryland SoccerPlex Stadium; Boyds, Md.; 7:30 p.m. ET

SECOND ROUND- Tuesday, May 22

Carolina Dynamo (PDL) at Richmond Kickers (USL PRO): Richmond City Stadium; Richmond, Va.; 7 p.m. ET

OR

Richmond Kickers (USL PRO) at Dulles Sportsplex Aegean Hawks FC (USASA): Maryland SportsPlex Stadium; Boyds, Md.; 7:30 p.m. ET

*A great site to keep up to date with U.S. Open Cup news is TheCup.us.

2012 LAMAR HUNT U.S. OPEN CUP PAIRINGS ANNOUNCED
FOR FIRST AND SECOND ROUNDS

Opening Round of 99th U.S. Open Cup Kicks off May 15; Second Round Starts May 22

CHICAGO (May 1, 2012) - The 2012 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup first- and second-round pairings have been announced, with first-round matches kicking off Tuesday, May 15, and second-round games on Tuesday, May 22.

The 99th edition of the U.S. Open Cup includes a 64-team field, which represents the largest in the modern era (1995 to present), eclipsing the previous record of 42 teams set in 2005 and 2006.

All Division I, II and III professional clubs are participating in the tournament proper for the first time ever. The Division I field includes all 16 U.S.-based Major League Soccer teams, which is double the representation from the past five years and the first time since 2006 that all Division I teams will take part. Meanwhile, all six U.S.-based North American Soccer League teams (Division II) and all 10 U.S.-based USL PRO teams (Division III) complete the balance of the 32 professional sides competing (also a modern record). This 2012 competition marks the first year that clubs representing the NASL will participate in America's oldest national soccer tournament.

The amateur entries feature 32 teams from various leagues with the U.S. Adult Soccer Association (including USASA regional qualifiers, the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League and the National Premier Soccer League) and US Club Soccer.

All 2012 U.S. Open Cup matches until the final are scheduled for Tuesdays, with the championship taking place on either Tuesday, Aug. 7, or Wednesday, Aug. 8. In the first round, 32 amateur-level sides are paired geographically, with the restriction that teams from the same qualifying pool (meaning USASA regional qualifiers, PDL and NPSL) cannot be paired. The first-round winners face Division II or Division III clubs in the second round based on geographic proximity. Second-round winners play Division I clubs in the third round, matched on a geographic basis.

The opening portion of the U.S. Open Cup schedule will occur in rapid fashion as the first four rounds take place in back-to-back weeks from May 15 to June 5. The quarterfinals are set for June 26, the semifinals for July 10, and the final for Aug. 7 or 8. The majority of the tournament will have only a minimal overlap with CONCACAF Champions League play.
The Richmond Kickers of the USL PRO have the strongest U.S. Open Cup ties among this early-round field. The Kickers won the 1995 U.S. Open Cup when they were part of the USL's Premier Development League, defeating the El Paso Patriots in a shootout following a 1-1 draw through regulation and extra time. In this year's tournament, the Kickers will either face the PDL's Carolina Dynamo or the USASA's Dulles Sportsplex Aegean Hawks FC in the second round on May 22.