WPS Weekend Preview - May 1

FC Gold Pride at Sky Blue FC – May 1 (6 pm ET, 3 pm PT)-FSC Game of the Week
Yurcak Field, Piscataway, NJ

Rosters:
FC Gold Pride: GK-N. Barnhart, B. Cameron; D-R. Buehler, A. Riley, K. Wilson, C. Chapman, K. Graczyk; MF-Marta, B. Edwards, C. Abily, S. Gulbrandsen (probable-hip flexor), C. Dew; F-C. Sinclair, K. O’Hara, T. Milbrett, K. Bosio.
Not Active: A. Bowyer, K. Fountain, E. Guthrie, R. Tantillo, K. Yokers.

Sky Blue FC: GK-K. Bardsley, S. Myers; D-D. Koster, B. Taylor, K. Dowling, K. Dallstream, D. Johnson; MF-Y. Averbuch, H. O’Reilly, Rosana, K. White, A. Salem; F-L. Kalmari, J. Landström, K. Schoepfer, M. Snell.
Not Active: N. Kai (hamstring), C. Lloyd (ankle), M. Schnur (knee), C. Rampone (maternity), A. Asante (knee), J. Branam (knee).

Previous Meetings:
This Season-Sky Blue 1 @ Gold Pride 3.
All Time-Gold Pride leads series at 2-1-1.

What to Look For: It’s a badly understaffed Sky Blue that will take the field on Saturday, as about half of their starters are out with injuries. Kai has scored two of Sky Blue’s 3 goals this season and will be badly missed. Meanwhile, Gold Pride will be returning Sinclair and Chapman to their lineup after their trip with the Canadian National Team last week. Bardsley has two shutouts, but SBFC has been outshot every game in 2010 and her defense needs to keep opposing strikers off her. Gold Pride scored two goals in the last 15 minutes of their last meeting to gain the victory.
Storylines: Sky Blue and Gold Pride sit tied atop the WPS table with identical 2-1 records and 6 points. Sky Blue is the only original team that Gold Pride has a winning record against. Gold Pride has only one road win in 11 tries over two seasons and have never scored more than a goal in any road contest.

Saint Louis Athletica at Washington Freedom – May 1 (6 pm ET, 5 pm CT)
RFK Stadium, Washington, DC

Rosters:
Saint Louis: GK-H. Solo, A. Harris; D-T. Ellertson, K. Fletcher, E. Weber, N. Cross; MF-L. Chalupny, S. Boxx, C. Blank, A. Miyama, T. DiMartino, L. Tarpley; F-E. Aluko, M. Edlund, I. Trotter, V. Perez.
Not Active: E. Walter (ribs), Daniela (knee), K. Larsen (foot), Elaine (groin), S. Wagenfuhr (hamstring), K. Spisak, S. Teegarden.

Washington: GK-E. McLeod, M. McCray; D-C. Whitehill, N. Marshall, S. Bompastor, R. Moros, B. Bock (questionable-foot), A. Singer, K. Eveland; MF-H. Sawa, B. Sauerbrunn, A. Long, S. Huffman, J. Gilbeau, B. Goebel; F-Abby Wambach, L. Mykjåland, L. DeVanna, C. Welsh.
Not Active: B. Scurry (head), C. Miskel, M. Abegg.

Previous Meetings (2009):
Saint Louis 3 @ Washington 3
Washington 1 @ Saint Louis 0
Saint Louis 0 @ Washington 1

What to Look For: This game will feature one of highest power offenses in the Freedom and one of the most consistent defenses in Athletica. Wambach has a goal and 4 assists in just 3 games. Aluko’s two goals lead Athletica in scoring. It should be a good battle at goalkeeper with USWNT starter Solo vs. Canadian National Team starter McLeod. Athletica is banged up with injuries, particularly at right back and they might be forced to move Chalupny to the back line to compensate. Bock, still looking for her first action of 2010, is listed as questionable.
Storylines: While most teams have had no problem scoring on Washington, Athletica has struggled. Two of Washington’s 4 shutouts last season came against Saint Louis. The teams developed quite a rivalry last season, but Saint Louis has never defeated the Freedom. Wambach is still looking for her first goal against Athletica.

Chicago Red Stars at Boston Breakers – May 1 (6 pm ET, 5 pm CT)
Harvard Stadium, Cambridge, MA

Rosters:
Chicago: GK-J. Loyden, K. Davis; D-K. Markgraf, W. Engen, M. Dalmy, I. Dieke, N. Spilger; MF-B. Klein, K. Chapman, K. Carney, Formiga, J. Sitch, M. Rapinoe; F-Cristiane, E. Masar, C. Nogueira.
Not Active: K. Asllani (ribs), J. McDonald (other), L. Vandenbergh, M. Weissenhofer, J. Santacaterina.

Boston: GK-Ashley Phillips, Alyssa Naeher; D-Amy LePeilbet, K. Moore, A. Scott, S. Cox, J. Angeli, A. Marquez; MF-L. Osborne, K. Lilly, K. Smith, C. Igwe, M. Tomecka; F-L. Cheney, L. Del Rio, Fabiana, T. Weimer, L. Bogus.
Not Active: S. Walsh (knee), M. Enyeart (knee), T. Hemmings, C. Zimmeck.

Previous Meetings (2009):
Boston 0 @ Chicago 4
Boston 2 @ Chicago 0
Chicago 0 @ Boston 1

What To Look For: Quite simply, the Red Stars must start scoring. Chicago will be missing one of their top offensive players in Asllani, but Rapinoe has been activated for this game and might see her first action of the year. The Breakers have been very good on their own set pieces, but not particularly good at defending opposing set pieces. While the Red Stars have outshot their 3 previous opponents, it should prove much harder to do so against a pretty potent Breakers offense. The Smith-Cheney-Lilly combination could give Chicago’s back line a lot of problems.
Storylines: Chicago is looking for their 1st road goal since last June. Chioma Igwe plays against her old team for the first time this season. Neither Loyden for Chicago (6 career starts) nor Phillips for Boston (3 career starts) has ever given up more than a goal in any game, although Phillips is still looking for her first shutout. English National Team stars face off against each other with Carney and Chapman for the Red Stars and Smith and Scott for the Breakers.

Atlanta Beat at Philadelphia Independence – May 1 (6 pm ET)
John A. Farrell Stadium, West Chester, PA

Rosters:
Atlanta: GK-A. Whitworth, B. Maron; D-K. McNeill, S. Bishop, L. Robinson, L. Sesselmann, S. Mundy; MF-M. Yamaguchi, M. Zerboni, A. Kerr, K. Larkin; F-R. Bachmann, J. Rasmussen, S. Thompson, M. Ocampo, A. Cinalli.
Not Active: T. Heath (ankle), T. Hamm, R. Nolin, B. Mattern, M. Schumacher-Hodge, M. Lofton-Malachi.

Philadelphia: GK-K. LeBlanc, V. Henderson; D-S. Larsson, N. Krzysik, A. Falk, H. Mitts, E. Johnson, S. Senty; MF-C. Seger, L. Lindsey, J. Lohman, J. Buczkowski, L. Patterson; F-A. Rodriguez, L. Sanderson, H. Magnusdottir, D. Adams, K. Maruyama.
Not Active: G. DiMartino, K. Reynolds, C. Patterson, R. Jones.

Previous Meetings (2010):
Atlanta 0 @ Philadelphia 0.

What to Look For: These two teams played to a scoreless tie on opening day. Since then, Philadelphia has played well earning a road tie at Boston and a home win against the Freedom. Meanwhile, the Beat has been a bit unlucky giving up a late goal last week to fall to Gold Pride. Atlanta get McNeill back from suspension which should help the defensive effort, but they will badly miss Heath in the midfield. Philly’s defense has been very sound so far. LeBlanc returns after missing last week’s game with the CNT, having given up just one goal on a deflection. Meanwhile, Whitworth has faced more shots on goal than any other keeper and her defense needs to keep Lindsey, Rodriguez, and company off her doorstep.
Storylines: Philadelphia tries to stay unbeaten, while Atlanta is still looking for its 1st win having earned their only point in the tie against the Independence. Lindsey leads WPS with 4 assists. The Beat continue their long road trip before playing their 1st game in their new stadium next weekend.

Answer to Trivia Question: How many current Saint Louis Athletica players, including developmental and injured reserve players, have at least one cap for a senior National Team (any country)? Answer: 14. For the USWNT, Shannon Boxx (124), Lindsay Tarpley (119), Lori Chalupny (92), Hope Solo (89), Tina Ellertson (34), Tina DiMartino (5), India Trotter (2), and Kendall Fletcher (1). For Brazil, Daniela and Elaine. For England, Eniola Aluko (46). For Japan, Aya Miyama (76). For Sweden, Madelaine Edlund (1). And for Mexico, Veronica Perez (2).

Damallsvenskan 2010, Round 4

24 april
Tyresö FF - Kristianstads DFF 0 - 0
Warning: Tyresö, Helen Nottebrock, 82'

AIK - Sunnanå SK 1 - 1
Goals: 34' Josefin Johansson 0-1; 90' Linda Sembrant 1-1
Warning: Sunnanå, Magdalena Esseryd 66'

25 april
Jitex BK - Djurgården 1 - 0
Goal: 35' Annica Sjölund, 1-0 (penalty)
Warnings: Jitex, Kristine Lindblom yellow, 14', Kristine Lindblom, 38' (red), Frida Höglund, 90'

LdB FC Malmö - KIF Örebro DFF 4 - 0
Goals: 19' Manon Melis (passning Frida Nordin) 1-0; 56' Manon Melis (passning Therese Sjögran) 2-0; 78' Therese Sjögran 3-0; 90' Manon Melis (passning Nilla Fischer)
Warning: LdB, Lina Nilsson, 86'


Umeå IK - Linköpings FC 1 - 1
Goals: 18' Anna Westerlund, 1-0; 80' Charlotte Rohlin, 1-1
Warning: Umeå, Maija Saari, 84'

Hammarby IF DFF - Kopparbergs/Göteborg 1 - 2
Goals: 53' Therese Brogårde (passning Nazanin Vaseghpanah) 1-0; 60' Linnea Liljegärd 1-1; 86' Linnea Liljegärd (passning Caroline Näfver) 1-2
Warning: Hammarby, Annica Svensson, 33'


Volcano Bonus Result: Round 3
28 april
Sunnanå SK - Kopparbergs/Göteborg 0 - 4
Goals: 10' Lisa Ek (passning Jenny Hallstenson) 0-1; 22' Sara Lindén (passning Lisa Ek) 0-2; 36' Sara Lindén 0-3; 54' Linnea Liljegärd (passning Marlene Sjöberg)
Warning: Sunnanå, Magdalena Esseryd, 71'


At long last, Umeå played its second Champions League semifinal against Lyon on 28 April, which ended as a 0-0 draw, sending Lyon through to the finals.

Update on Tobin Heath's Ankle

There has been a further update on Tobin Heath's ankle injury. Her tests came back negative as far as ligament damage goes, however she does have an ankle sprain. According to a press release from the Atlanta organization, Beat General Manager Shawn McGee gave the estimation of recovery time at "anywhere from four to six weeks." Heath had injured her ankle early in Saturday night's game against FC Gold Pride.

WPS Midweek Notes - April 28

Lindsey Wins Player of the Week
Lori Lindsey was named WPS player of the week on the strength of her 3 assists against the Washington Freedom. Philadelphia defeated Washington 3-1 for their first victory ever. The 3 assists in a game by Lindsey is a WPS record. Lindsey has assisted on all 4 Independence goals this season and has helped lead her team to a competitive 1-0-2 record, good for 3rd place in the league. She is also a leading candidate for the WPS Player of the Month award.

Using Their Heads and Whatever Else Works
There were a lot of key goals scored so far this season on headers. This past weekend, Allison Falk gave her team a 2-1 lead, heading in a free kick serve from Lindsey. The previous week, Falk had tied Boston 1-1 on a similar play. Carrie Dew got a late winner against Atlanta with her header in the 90th minute after coming close several times earlier in the match. Meanwhile in Saint Louis, Carolyn Blank scored the game-tying goal in what she described as "part chest, part shoulder, part upper body." Defensive players do seem to be scoring more goals this season, mostly coming on set pieces via the header.

Around the League
Atlanta Beat - Goalkeeper Allison Whitworth has already faced 29 shots on goal, 10 more than Hope Solo, who is 2nd in that category.....Angie Kerr earned her first WPS point with an assist on Monica Ocampo's goal against Gold Pride.....The Beat will play their 4th consecutive road game this week against Philadelphia. They open their new stadium on May 9 against Sky Blue FC.

Boston Breakers - Kasey Moore became the first Breakers’ defender to score a goal since Alex Scott scored on May 17, 2009 against Washington.....Kristine Lilly picked up her 2nd assist of the season on Moore's goal.....3 of Boston’s 4 goals have come on set pieces, two on corner kicks and one on a free kick. Meanwhile, 2 of their opponent’s 3 goals have come on set pieces.

Chicago Red Stars - Jill Loyden has not given up more than one goal in any of her 6 career starts.....The Red Stars have outshot all 3 opponents, but only have one goal and one point to show for it.....The Red Stars travel to Boston this week, having not scored a goal in their last 7 road games. Their last road goal was scored by Cristiane in a 1-1 tie on June 7, 2009.

FC Gold Pride - Carrie Dew’s game winning goal started with a flip throw by Kiki Bosio. Ali Riley sent Bosio's throw back to Dew for the assist.....Gold Pride's two top draft selections, Riley and Kelley O'Hara have played every minute of the first 3 matches.....Gold Pride is now undefeated in their last 5 home games dating back to 2009, with a 3-0-2 record over that time.

Philadelphia Independence - Val Henderson earned her 2nd career goalkeeping victory in as many starts. She shut out Gold Pride in her only 2009 appearance.....Lianne Sanderson became the 3rd English National team player to score already this year. She joins Eni Aluko and Kelly Smith, who have two goals apiece.....Allison Falk now has three career goals, all by headers and all on set pieces.

Saint Louis Athletica - Carolyn Blank, the 46th overall pick in this year’s draft, became the lowest draft choice ever to score a goal in WPS.....Tina Ellertson picked up her first career assist and has now started 23 consecutive games for Athletica.....Sunday’s match marked the first time that Saint Louis had come from behind to tie a match.

Sky Blue FC - Karen Bardsley has two shutouts this season which currently leads WPS in that category.....Tasha Kai already has two game winning goals this season. Last year, she was credited with none, although her July 12th goal against Boston put her SBFC side ahead for good.....Sky Blue has now shut out Chicago 6 consecutive times.

Washington Freedom - In spite of Sunday’s loss, Abby Wambach recorded an assist for the 4th consecutive match.....When Meagan McCray entered the game against Philadelphia, she became the 5th different goalkeeper that the Freedom has used over two seasons.....Including last year's playoff match, Becky Sauerbrunn has now played 2160 consecutive minutes for the Freedom and she has yet to be miss a minute on the field.

Trivia Question - How many current Saint Louis Athletica players, including developmental and injured reserve players, have at least one cap for a senior National Team (any country)?

WPS - Injury Update & Change in Injured Reserve Rules

Carli Lloyd of Sky Blue FC has been placed on 30-day injured reserve with a broken ankle, suffered in the match with the Chicago Red Stars. Lloyd suffered the injury to her left ankle in the 27th minute of last Sunday's win when she slipped on the surface at Toyota Park and landed awkwardly on her ankle. After getting herself to the Sky Blue FC sideline, she was unable to return to the match. She is expected to fully recover and return to action later this season.

Tobin Heath of Atlanta suffered an injury to her right ankle in the 18th minute of Saturday night's match at FC Gold Pride. The latest word on her is that the ankle was not broken, but further tests will be made to determine the full extent of the injury.

Athletica midfielder, Daniela, has now joined the team, but the exact timetable for her return is unknown at this point. She had been placed on the 60-day injured reserve list, however, that rule has just been changed to a new 30-day injured reserve status.

League Approves Changes to Injured Reserve Policy to “30-day Injured Reserve List”
from WPS press release...

At April’s WPS Board meeting, the league owners approved changes to the WPS Injured Reserve Policy from the previous 60-day Injured Reserve List.

Now, an injured reserve list called “30-day Injured Reserve” is available for players who experience a major injury. Once placed on the list, a player may not play in a league game for a minimum of 30 days. After the initial 30 days, up to a maximum number of days until June 30 (the day before player contracts are guaranteed), the player may remain on the IR or be activated, if the team chooses to do so.

For a player on the IR as of the last day before semi-guaranteed player contracts become guaranteed, the team must either activate the player or declare her to be a season-ending injury. During the time the player is on the IR, the player’s salary continues to count against the in-season total team salary compensation. If the team elects to replace the player while she is on the IR, they may do so, and the salary of the replacement player does not count against the cap.

The 60-day Injured Reserve policy is no longer in place. However, the season-ending injury policy remains unaltered: rostered players who are listed with season-ending injuries will not have their salaries count towards total team compensation and can be replaced by replacement players.

Athletica and Breakers Slosh to 1-1 Draw

It what might charitably be called challenging field conditions, Saint Louis and Boston battled to a 1-1 tie at a soggy Soccer Park in Fenton, Missouri. With all of the offensive talent on the field, the two goals came from unlikely sources in Kasey Moore for the Breakers and Carolyn Blank for Athletica.

The weather played a huge part in the game and led to some great early chances for the Breakers. In the 14th minute, Kendall Fletcher hit a fairly normal pass back to Hope Solo, but the ball stopped dead in a puddle half way between the two. Lauren Cheney, who appeared to be as shocked as everyone else, gained possession and attempted to chip the ball over Solo's head but the ball went harmlessly to the side.

Just a few minutes later, Solo attempted a drop kick but didn't get all of the ball which Kelly Smith picked up about 30 yards out. Smith attempted the quick shot, but a diving Solo was able to steer the ball wide. "I went to bounce it on the drop kick and it didn't bounce back up," said Solo. "After that, I tried to punt and I haven't punted since I was probably in high school."

Boston finally did get on the board in the 22nd minute. Kristine Lilly hit a low corner kick to the edge of the box which appeared to be headed for Kelly Smith. Smith dummied it and a charging Kasey Moore brilliantly struck a low shot with pace that beat Solo to the lower left side of the goal. It was Moore's first WPS goal.

Boston's lead didn't last long. In the 27th, Aya Miyama took a free kick from about 28 yards and sent it to the far side of the box, where Tina Ellertson headed back across the goal mouth. Carolyn Blank was waiting and chested the ball between Alex Scott and goalkeeper Ashley Phillips for tying goal. "Honestly, right place, right time," said Blank. "Tina just put a great ball back in." For the rookie from West Virginia, it was her first WPS goal and well-earned for the solid match she played.

The Breakers nearly regained the lead in the 39th minute. Lilly hit a blistering low shot that short-hopped Solo, bouncing off her for a rebound. Kelly Smith connected with the rebound from point blank range, but Solo used her body to block the shot and the defense was able to clear the ball out of trouble.

Play in the 2nd half was much crisper, with Athletica having the better of the play in the last 45 minutes. Their best opportunity came in the 63rd minute when Blank sent a ball through to Aluko, who one-timed it from 15 yards, but Phillips was able to make the diving save. Later in the half, Aluko and Lilly traded chances, but were unable to get the ball on frame.

Athletica had one last good chance to win it in the 83rd, when Aluko appeared to have a clear cut header from about 9 yards, but mishit it wide of the goal. Late substitutions Lindsay Tarpley and India Trotter for Athletica, and Laura Del Rio and Tiffany Weimer for Boston had their moments, but were unable to change the score.

Athletica captain Lori Chalupny saw improvement in the 2nd half over the 1st. "We really had some good looks in the 2nd half. I thought the 2nd half was very exciting, back and forth. It was just a good battle between two good teams."

The game marked the first time that Athletica had come from behind to tie a game over two seasons. "Coming from behind was huge for us", added defender Tina Ellertson.

The two teams remained tied, both at 1 win and 2 ties for 5 points. They sit one point behind FC Gold Pride and Sky Blue FC, who each have 6 points. Boston returns home where they will play the Chicago Red Stars next Saturday. Saint Louis travels to Washington where they will play the Freedom at RFK Stadium.

In other action on Sunday evening:

Sky Blue FC 1, Chicago Red Stars 0

Sky Blue blanked Chicago for the 6th consecutive time in a match played at Toyota Park in Chicago. Tasha Kai scored in the 53rd minute on an assist from Kacey White. Karen Bardsley added the shutout for Sky Blue, who sit atop the table with 2 wins, 1 loss and 6 points. Chicago has only a lone point to show for 3 matches.

Philadelphia Independence 3, Washington Freedom 1

The expansion Independence won their first game on their home field by scoring three 2nd half goals. After Lisa De Vanna had put the Freedom ahead in the 51st minute with her first goal of the year, Amy Rodriguez answered in the 54th minute with a goal of her own to tie the score at one. Minutes later, the Lori Lindsey to Allison Falk connection worked for the second week in a row, with Falk finishing again with a header to give Philly the lead. English international Lianne Sanderson added an insurance goal in the 67th minute, again assisted by Lindsey, who was facing off against her old team. For Sanderson, it was her first WPS goal. Philadelphia was able to close it out for the 3-1 victory.

Lindsey has now assisted on 3 of the Independence's 4 goals for the season. Abby Wambach assisted on De Vanna's goal, giving her an assist in each of her last 4 regular season contests dating back to last season. Philadelphia is tied with Saint Louis and Boston with 5 points, just a single point behind the league leaders. Washington fell to 1-2 with 3 points.

Gold Pride Edges Beat on Late Goal by Dew

Carrie Dew's header in the 90th minute gave FC Gold Pride a 2-1 victory over the Atlanta Beat on Saturday night at Castro Valley Athletic Stadium. It is the first time that Gold Pride has won two consecutive games in the team's history.

Tiffeny Milbrett opened the scoring in 11th minute, assisted by Camille Abily. Monica Ocampo got the equalizer for Atlanta in the 25th minute, assisted by Angie Kerr. The 1st half ended with the score tied at one.

Both teams traded chances in the 2nd half, with no scoring until the deciding goal in the closing minute. A Kiki Bosio flip throw started the scoring sequence, which was headed by an Atlanta player, but recovered by Ali Riley who flicked the ball back toward the goal with Dew finishing.

Tobin Heath, the 1st selection in the January draft, came off the field injured in the 1st half and had to be carried off the field. Later, Ramona Bachmann went down, but she returned to action.

Gold Pride was playing without Christine Sinclair and Candace Chapman, who were away on national team duty for Canada. Atlanta was missing Kia McNeill who was suspended for the game.

The victory gives Gold Pride 1st place for the moment with 6 points, pending the outcome of tomorrow's contests.

WPS Weekly Previews - April 24 & 25

Atlanta Beat at FC Gold Pride – April 24 (10 pm eastern, 7 pm pacific)
Castro Valley Athletic Stadium, Castro Valley, CA

Rosters:
Atlanta: GK-A. Whitworth, B. Maron; D-S. Bishop, L. Robinson, L. Sesselmann, S. Mundy; MF-T. Heath, M. Yamaguchi, M. Zerboni, A. Kerr, K. Larkin; F-R. Bachmann, J. Rasmussen, S. Thompson, M. Ocampo, A. Cinalli.
Not Active: K. McNeill (suspension), T. Hamm, R. Nolin, B. Mattern, M. Schumacher-Hodge, M. Lofton-Malachi.

FC Gold Pride: GK-N. Barnhart, B. Cameron; D-R. Buehler, A. Riley, K. Wilson, K. Fountain, K. Graczyk; MF-B. Edwards, C. Abily, S. Gulbrandsen (unlikely-hip flexor), K. Yokers, C. Dew, A. Bowyer, R. Tantillo; F-Marta (questionable-ankle), K. O’Hara, T. Milbrett, K. Bosio.
Not Active: C. Sinclair (national team), C. Chapman (national team), E. Guthrie.

Previous Meetings: None

What to Look For: The Beat lost their captain and best defender with McNeill’s suspension. It leaves the already thin Atlanta in a bind on defense, facing a team with many offensive weapons. Gold Pride is missing two starters in Sinclair and Chapman. Atlanta’s defense will have to keep Gold Pride’s offense off of Whitworth, who faced a lot of shots in last week’s loss to Washington. The Beat could have their 3 talented international forwards (Bachmann, Rasmussen, and Thompson) on the field at the same time which may present Gold Pride some problems of their own. Gold Pride has to come into the game with confidence following their 3-1 victory over the defending champs last weekend.
Storylines: Leigh Ann Robinson and Allison Whitworth return to the Bay Area to face their old teammates for the first time. The goalkeeper duel features Nicole Barnhart vs. Whitworth in at matchup of last year’s starter vs. last year’s backup. It will be interesting to see who will miss their absent players the most, Atlanta with McNeill or Gold Pride with Sinclair and Chapman.


Washington Freedom at Philadelphia Independence – April 25 (6 pm eastern)
John A. Farrell Stadium, West Chester, PA

Rosters:
Washington: GK-B. Scurry, M. McCray; D-C. Whitehill, N. Marshall, S. Bompastor, R. Moros, A. Singer; MF-H. Sawa, B. Sauerbrunn, A. Long, S. Huffman, J. Gilbeau; F-Abby Wambach, L. Mykjåland, L. DeVanna, C. Welsh.
Not Active: B. Bock (foot), E. McLeod (national team), K. Eveland, B. Goebel, C. Miskel, M. Abegg.

Philadelphia: GK-V. Henderson, R. Jones; D-S. Larsson, N. Krzysik, A. Falk, H. Mitts, E. Johnson, S. Senty; MF-C. Seger, L. Lindsey, J. Lohman, L. Patterson; F-A. Rodriguez, L. Sanderson, H. Magnusdottir, D. Adams, K. Maruyama, G. DiMartino.
Not Active: K. LeBlanc (national team), J. Buczkowski (suspension), K. Reynolds, C. Patterson.

Previous Meetings: None

What to Look For: Once again, Washington is leading the league both in goals scored and goals surrendered. LeBlanc’s and McLeod’s absence could make it that much easier for both teams to score. Philadelphia’s defense has been stubborn to this point, allowing only one goal in two starts, but Buczkowski’s suspension could hurt. Wambach is on a scoring spree dating back to last year…6 goals and 4 assists in her last 6 games. DeVanna and Mykjåland have yet to get untracked from a scoring point of view, but this may be the week. Philadelphia needs to find more offense from their front line…their only goal was scored by defender Allison Falk on a set piece.
Storylines: Will Washington start Scurry or McCray in goal? Val Henderson gets her 2nd career start in goal, her first for Philadelphia. She shutout FCGP in her only 2009 start. Lori Lindsey faces her old teammates for the first time. Can Abby Wambach extend her consecutive games with an assist to 4? Philadelphia tries to remain among the league’s unbeaten teams.


Sky Blue FC at Chicago Red Stars – April 25 (6 pm eastern, 5 pm central)
Toyota Park, Bridgeview, IL

Rosters:
Sky Blue FC: GK-K. Bardsley, A. Thompson; D-D. Koster, B. Taylor, K. Dowling, M. Schnur, K. Dallstream; MF-Y. Averbuch, C. Lloyd, H. O’Reilly, Rosana, K. White; F-N. Kai, L. Kalmari, J. Landström, K. Schoepfer.
Not Active: C. Rampone (maternity), A. Asante (knee), J. Branam (knee), A. Salem, M. Snell, D. Johnson.

Chicago: GK-J. Loyden, K. Davis; D-K. Markgraf, W. Engen, M. Dalmy, I. Dieke, N. Spilger; MF-B. Klein, K. Chapman, K. Carney, Formiga, J. Sitch, J. Santacaterina; F-Cristiane, E. Masar, K. Asllani, C. Nogueira, M. Weissenhofer.
Not Active: J. McDonald (other), M. Rapinoe (illness), L. Vandenbergh.

Previous Meetings:
This Season-Chicago 0 @ Sky Blue 1.
All Time-Sky Blue leads series with 4-0-1.

What to Look For: The Red Stars have outshot their opponents in both games this year, but they need to get more of those shots on frame. Nogueira was a difference maker off of the bench against Saint Louis. The home crowd definitely gave Chicago a lift last week. Sky Blue gets Schnur back, which will help a defense that surrendered 3 goals to Gold Pride last weekend. With the talent they have in the midfield, Sky Blue needs to control the tempo of the game more. Chicago had a heavy edge in play over the last 60 minutes of last weekend’s match against Athletica.
Storylines: In five previous meetings, Chicago has yet to score a goal on Sky Blue. Carli Lloyd returns to Chicago for the first time this year. Can the Red Stars start turning scoring opportunities into goals instead of near misses? Can Casey Nogueira repeat her success from last week? Can Sky Blue rebound after last week’s loss to Gold Pride?


Boston Breakers at Saint Louis Athletica – April 25 (6 pm eastern, 5 pm central)-FSC Game of the Week
Anheuser-Busch Soccer Park, Fenton, MO

Rosters:
Boston: GK-Ashley Phillips, Alyssa Naeher; D-Amy LePeilbet, K. Moore, A. Scott, S. Cox, J. Angeli; MF-L. Osborne, K. Lilly, K. Smith, C. Igwe; F-L. Cheney, L. Del Rio, Fabiana, T. Weimer, L. Bogus.
Not Active: S. Walsh (knee), M. Enyeart (knee), A. Marquez, T. Hemmings, M. Tomecka, C. Zimmeck.

Saint Louis: GK-H. Solo, A. Harris; D-T. Ellertson, K. Fletcher, E. Weber, S. Wagenfuhr (probable-hamstring), N. Cross, Elaine (unlikely-groin); MF-L. Chalupny, S. Boxx, C. Blank, A. Miyama, T. DiMartino, L. Tarpley; F-E. Aluko, M. Edlund, I. Trotter, V. Perez.
Not Active: E. Walter (ribs), Daniela (knee), K. Larsen (foot), K. Spisak, S. Teegarden.

Previous Meetings (2009):
Saint Louis 0 @ Boston 2
Saint Louis 1 @ Boston 0
Boston 0 @ Saint Louis 1

What to Look For: Boston has a solid defense, but they need to shut down Aluko who scored both Athletica goals against the Breakers in 2009. Saint Louis is traditionally a 1st half team and need to break out on top early. Kelly Smith and Lori Cheney should give Athletica’s defense a handful. Saint Louis’ defense is thin with injuries to Elaine and Wagenfuhr. It should be quite a battle between two talented midfields. Saint Louis should have an edge in goalkeeping, but only if Solo’s defense marks better than they did last week against Chicago.
Storylines: Kelly Smith has scored a goal in her last 3 games and looks to tie a record on Sunday. All 3 previous meetings ended in shutouts. It’s an early season clash between the top two teams in the WPS table.

Answer to Trivia Question: Ramona Bachmann became the youngest player ever to score a goal in a WPS game at 19 years, 114 days when she scored in last Sunday’s match in Washington. Before Bachmann, who held the record? For the regular season, Adriane of FC Gold Pride was 21 years and 12 days old when she scored on August 1, 2009, also against the Washington Freedom. Francielle was just 19 years, 301 days old when she scored for Sky Blue FC against Washington on August 15, 2009, which remains the playoff record for the youngest player scoring a goal.

WPS Midweek Notes - April 21

Wambach Named Player of the Week

Abby Wambach was named WPS Player of the Week on the strength of a one goal and two assist outing against the Atlanta Beat. It marks the 4th time that Wambach has been so honored. She scored her first goal of the 2010 season against the Beat, knocking home a rebound. Wambach’s 9 career WPS goals trails only Marta, who has 11. Her two assists on Sunday now places her atop the all-time list with 8. Abby now has 6 goals and 4 assists over her last 6 regular season matches going back to 2009.

Déjà vu….All Over Again

A free kick from the right wing gets lofted into the penalty area, Allison Falk makes her run to the net, rises and heads it into the goal for her franchise’s first goal ever. It happened on March 29, 2009 for the Los Angeles Sol at the Home Depot Center, and in that case it was the first goal in WPS history. It happened again this past Sunday at Harvard Stadium for the Philadelphia Independence. The similarities of the plays are a bit eerie. Both free kicks were taken by talented midfielders, last year Aya Miyama and this year, Lori Lindsey. And Allison Falk scores a historically significant goal for two different franchises.

While last year’s goal involved a bit of collision with opposing goalkeeper, Briana Scurry, this year’s header was cleanly struck into the net. Last year’s goal came in the opening match of the year, but Falk had to wait until Philly's 2nd match, since she was not available in the home opener due to her red card dating back to last year’s championship game. For Falk, better known as Kirby to her teammates, it is the only two goals of her career, but they are very memorable goals.

Dr. Jekyll and Ms. Hyde

That would be an apt description of the 1st half play vs. 2nd half play for Saint Louis Athletica. Once again on Saturday, Saint Louis scored early to lead Chicago 1-0, only to give up a 2nd half goal and settle for a tie. Over 22 regular season matches, Athletica has outscored their opponents by a margin of 15-3 in the 1st half. However, they have been outscored by 13-7 in the 2nd half of those matches. Their record when scoring in the 1st half of a match is 9-0-4. When they don’t score in the 1st half, their record is 2-6-1. Not only has Athletica never come from behind to win a match, they have never come from behind to tie a match. They have lost all 7 matches in which their opponent has scored first.

Around the League

Atlanta Beat – Ramona Bachmann scored the first goal in Atlanta Beat (WPS) history. She also became the youngest player to ever score a goal in WPS…..After league review of Bachmann’s goal, Mami Yamaguchi was correctly awarded an assist on the goal…..The 3 goals given up by Allison Whitworth were the most she has surrendered in her 6 WPS starts. Whitworth made 8 saves in the contest.

Boston Breakers – Kelly Smith ran her consecutive games scoring streak to 3 games dating back to last year’s final match against LA…..Boston’s attendance of 5286 for Sunday’s match eclipsed last year’s home opener attendance of 4804…..Liz Bogus got her first start since May 24, 2009 when she started for Los Angeles against FC Goal Pride.

Chicago Red Stars – Casey Nogueira’s 2nd half goal marked the first time Chicago has scored against Athletica since last year’s season opener when Lindsay Tarpley scored for the Red Stars…..Internationals Karen Carney and Formiga both saw their first action of the season as 2nd half substitutions…..Saturday’s draw was the first for Chicago since they played to a scoreless tie against Washington on June 13, 2009.

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FC Gold Pride – Christine Sinclair’s brace was the first in Gold Pride history…..Kelley O’Hara assisted on the final two goals on Saturday which marks the first time an FCGP player has earned two assists in a game…..Gold Pride has now scored three goals in a game 3 times in club history, all at home.

Philadelphia Independence – The Independence are one of three unbeaten teams remaining…..Both of Allison Falk’s career goals have been via headers…..Jen Buczkowski received two yellow cards in the 2nd half of Sunday’s game and the resulting red will result in a mandatory one game suspension.

Saint Louis Athletica – Aya Miyama was subbed out in the 2nd half of Saturday’s match against Chicago, marking the first WPS action she has missed…..Elaine became the 2nd right back in as many games to come out with an injury in the 1st half. Sarah Wagenfuhr left Athletica’s first match with an injury…..Shannon Boxx has been cautioned in each of the first two matches.

Sky Blue FC – Finnish International Laura Kalmari scored her first WPS goal on Saturday…..Sky Blue finished Saturday’s match with 3 rookies on the field in Brittany Taylor, Danielle Johnson, and Kiersten Dallstream…..The three goals surrendered by Sky Blue marks only the 3rd time they have allowed that many. The previous two occasions were against the Washington Freedom.

Washington Freedom – Christie Welsh has scored 4 goals over her last 4 regular season matches dating back to 2009…..The Freedom have now played 8 consecutive matches (9 if you count the playoffs) without being shut out…..Abby Wambach has earned assists in each of her last 3 regular season matches, which I believe is a record.

Trivia Question-Ramona Bachmann became the youngest player ever to score a goal in a WPS game at 19 years, 114 days when she scored in last Sunday’s match in Washington. Before Bachmann, who held the record?

Damallsvenskan 2010, Round 3: Under a cloud

Soccer in Sweden has been in a bit of turmoil this week due to the volcano in Iceland that threw so much ash into the air. The volcano claimed four football victims in total: K/Göteborg could not fly up to Skellefteå to play Sunnanå; Olympic Lyon could not fly to Umeå for the Champion's League semifinal which meant that the game was moved to the April 28; meanwhile, though, the Örebro-Umeå scheduled for last weekend had been rescheduled for April 28th and will now take place... well, it isn't clear yet when. The fourth victim of the ash cloud is the Swedish National Team, which was supposed to have played a friendly against Germany tomorrow night.

Djurgården—LdB Malmö 0 - 1
Goal: 90'+ 1:35 Josefine Alfsson 0-1

The statistics show a surprisingly even game, with similar numbers of freekicks and corners and each team taking 10 shots on goal. Djurgården's Alexandra Höglund and LdB's Lina Nilsson both got yellow cards.


Hammarby—Jitex 1 - 2
Goals: 51' Kristine Lindblom (passning Annica Sjölund), 0-1; 53' Annica Sjölund (passning Elin Sandgren) 0-2; 80' Daniella Chamoun 1-2

The statistics for this one were not quite as even, and you might have expected Hammarby to win it, but Jitex took control with two goals in quick succession at the start of the second half. Hammarby's goal came courtesy of Daniella Chamoun, who was a 54th minute substitute. Jitex's Sofia Skog and Elin Carlsson both received yellows.


Kristianstad—AIK 3 - 1
Goals: 5' Clara Markstedt 0-1; 22' Susanne Moberg (passning Antonia Göransson) 1-1; 43' Susanne Moberg (passning Antonia Göransson) 2-1; 78' Susanne Moberg (passning Therese Björck)

Susanne Moberg had a hat trick and Kristianstad dominated the positive stats in everything but corner kicks. This result is perhaps not as surprising as the next one, but it comes close, and AIK is now 0 for 3. Kristianstad's Antonia Göransson (who had two assists) and AIK's Malin Diaz each received yellows.


Linköping—Tyresö 0 - 2
Goals: 40' Kirsten van de Ven 0-1; 53' Kirsten van de Ven (passning Johanna Frisk according to svenskfotboll and LFC but Elin Ekblom Bak according to Tyresö) 0-2
Source: Tyresö, Linköping

The surprises continue, and this one is right up there with the opening round defeat of Umeå by Jitex; newcomers Tyresö "took a mighty fine scalp" despite the reportedly bad field and wind conditions in Linköping's Folkungvallen. Linköping had the slight advantage in the first, but both reports agree that Tyresö's first goal came in the wake of a "messy" corner kick and LFC went into the locker room behind for the first time this season. Reports conflict about who assisted on the second goal, but whoever it was crossed to ball very nicely to van de Ven right in front of the goal. Linköping's play picked up again after the 70th or so, but the Tyresö defense bunkered down and weathered it. A yellow card was issued to LFC's Petra Larsson. Tyresö now looks forward to their home opener and stadium dedication this Saturday, which includes a warm-up by musical act Crusified Barbara.


Sunnanå-Kopparbergs/Göteborg delayed until 28 april

KIF Örebro-Umeå delayed further notice

WPS Weekend Wrap Up - April 18

Boston Breakers 1, Philadelphia Independence 1

The Breakers and the Independence played to a 1-1 draw in Boston's home opener. After a scoreless first half, Kelly Smith put the Breakers on the board in the 50th minute. She took a free kick from about 25 yards and the ball deflected off of a Philadelphia player in the wall and past Karina LeBlanc and just inside the left post.

The lead was short-lived as Philadelphia tied the score just minutes later. A Lori Lindsey free kick from the right side found Allison Falk alone for the header from short range and she made no mistake in putting it away. It was the first ever goal for the Independence. For Falk, it is the 2nd time she has scored a franchise's first goal. Last season, she scored the first WPS goal ever for the Los Angeles Sol.

Jen Buczkowski was sent off after picking up her second yellow card late in the match, but Boston was unable to capitalize.

There was some brief controversy and confusion in the 1st half, when Heather Mitts was called for pulling down Kristine Lilly in the penalty area. The ball was spotted and everything appeared set for the penalty kick, but after conferring with the assistant referee, head referee Bryan Roslund ruled that Lilly was offsides before the foul occured and therefore waived off the penalty kick.

The point means that Boston is now tied for 1st place with Saint Louis at 4 points. The two will meet next Sunday on a nationally televised game on FSC from St. Louis. Philadelphia earned their second straight tie for 2 points and 6th place.


Washington Freedom 3, Atlanta Beat 1

Ramona Bachmann scored the first ever goal for the Beat, but it wasn't enough as the Washington Freedom defeated Atlanta by a 3-1 margin. Abby Wambach scored a 1st half goal and then assisted on two 2nd half goals after Atlanta had briefly tied the game at 1-1. Homare Sawa scored the go ahead goal in the 51st minute and then Christie Welsh added an insurance goal in the 90th minute.

The victory puts the Freedom in a 3-way tie for 3rd place, just one point behind league leaders Saint Louis and Boston. Gold Pride and Sky Blue also have 3 points. Atlanta is tied for 7th with Chicago at 1 point.

Icelandic volcano postpones UEFA semifinal

The eruption of the volcano in Iceland has disrupted air traffic throughout northern Europe, and has affected games in the UEFA Women's Champions League and Damallsvenskan. Umeå IK was slated to host their second semifinal against French side Olympique Lyonnais this afternoon, and, according Britta Åkerlund's report at UIK's website, UEFA was quite keen to see that the match was played today no matter what. An Icelandic UEFA delegate was replaced by one from Åland who could take the boat and train up to Umeå, and the Romanian and English referees were replaced by Norwegian and Finnish squads who were preparing to drive. All the scrambling made for a couple of very busy days for the Umeå support staff, which in the end was all for nought, as the final word came down from UEFA sometime yesterday morning that the match would be postponed. UIK reports that the last day for holding the rescheduled match is 29 April.

The affected Damallsvenskan match, in which Sunnanå (in Skellefteå) was to host Koppabergs/Göteborg, has been rescheduled for 28 April.

Athletica and Red Stars Draw; Gold Pride Knocks Off Sky Blue

Athletica defender Elaine challenges Red Star midfielder Julianne Sitch in 1st half action in the 1-1 tie. Elaine came off with an injury shortly afterwards, while Sitch played 65 minutes before being subbed out.

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Saint Louis Athletica and the Chicago Red Stars played to a 1-1 draw in Chicago. Lori Chalupny scored in just the 3rd minute of the game on a rebound. Casey Nogueira, a halftime substitution scored her first WPS goal in the 59th minute.

The lineup for Saint Louis was Solo, Elaine, Fletcher, Ellertson, Weber, Chalupny, Boxx, Blank, Miyama, DiMartino, and Aluko for Saint Louis. Chicago's lineup was Loyden, Engen, Markgraf, Dieke, Dalmy, Sitch, Klein, Chapman, Asllani, Cristiane, and Masar.

It didn't take long for Saint Louis to open the scoring. Eni Aluko and Aya Miyama worked the ball from the left sideline, and finally found Tina DiMartino alone at the 18. She struck a shot that Jill Loyden made a diving save on, but Lori Chalupny was waiting for the rebound and she deposited the ball safely into the lower right corner of the net to put Athletica on top 1-0 before the match was 3 minutes old.

Once again, Coach Jorge Barcellos was forced to use one of his substitutions in the 1st half for an injured player. Elaine went down twice, the first time she caught a shot in the midsection and was down for a couple minutes. Before the 30th minute, she went down again and was subbed out in favor of Niki Cross.

Saint Louis continued to play well for most of the 1st half, but several promising chances did not end in more scoring. Late in the half, the Red Stars started to assert themselves more and they created some nice chances. A Julianne Sitch cross just missed connecting with Kosovare Asllani in the 34th minute, followed shortly by an Ella Masar chance from a bad angle, and a Marian Dalmy shot that sailed wide. Chicago's best chance came as the half was coming to a close. A Cristiane shot from just inside the box had a diving Hope Solo beat, but the ball ricocheted off the inside of the post and bounced across the goal mouth where it was cleared by an Athletica defender under heavy pressure. The half ended 1-0 for Saint Louis.

Chicago's momentum continued into the 2nd half. Emma Hayes used her 1st substitution at the break, bringing in Casey Nogueira for Masar. The Red Stars were able to create a number chances in the opening minutes of the half, with Cristiane and Asllani both forcing saves by Solo. In the 58th minute, a ball appeared to be over Solo's head and headed for the goal, but she was able to reach back and deflect it clear.

The pressure finally paid off for Chicago in the 60th minute as a Katie Chapman cross came to Nogueira at the left side of the box. She settled the ball with one touch and then buried the shot in the upper right to tie the match at 1-1. For Nogueira, it was her first WPS goal.

The last 4 substitutions of the game saw entry of players who were seeing their first action for various reasons. Madelaine Edlund and Lindsay Tarpley came in for Saint Louis, while Karen Carney and Formiga subbed in for Chicago.

Saint Louis regained some momentum toward the closing minutes of the half. A Carolyn Blank shot was deflected just wide of the goal, while a Lindsay Tarpley-Shannon Boxx give and go just failed to connect. For Chicago, Asllani appeared to be through in the 88th, but her shot sailed well over the bar.

However, Chicago appeared to have the game won in the 90th minute, when Nogueira once again found herself alone from about 12 yards with nothing but Solo and the goal in front of her. Unfortunately, she got under the ball and her shot found the 20th row of the stands behind the Athletica net. Saint Louis was surely fortunate to have held on to the tie.

Chicago held the edge in shots, 14-10, and shots on goal by a 7-3 margin, while Athletica had a healthy advantage in corners 9-4. Saint Louis temporarily holds 1st place with 4 points, while Chicago earned their first point of the season.

FC Gold Pride 3, Sky Blue 1

FC Gold Pride won their home opener in fine fashion by a 3-1 score over defending champs Sky Blue FC. Christine Sinclair scored a goal in each half and Marta got an insurance goal late in the match to seal the victory.

After a 1-0 halftime lead on Sinclair's goal, Laura Kalmari equalized in the 51st minute. For Kalmari, it was her first WPS goal. However Gold Pride was able to score twice in the final 15 minutes of the match to take the victory. Kelley O'Hara earned assists on both of the last two goals.

Gold Pride outshot Sky Blue by an 18-6 margin for the match, that saw SBFC's back line severely shorthanded, without Anita Asante, Christie Rampone, and Meghan Schnur. Both teams now have a 1-1 record and 3 points for the season.

WPS Weekend Previews - April 17 & 18

Saint Louis Athletica at Chicago Red Stars
Toyota Park, Bridgeview, Illinois (Saturday, 7 pm central, 8 pm eastern)

Rosters:
Saint Louis: GK-Hope Solo, Ashlyn Harris; D-Tina Ellertson (probable-hamstring), Kendall Fletcher, Elise Weber, Elaine, Niki Cross; MF-Lori Chalupny (probable-back), Shannon Boxx (probable-hamstring), Carolyn Blank, Aya Miyama, Tina DiMartino, Lindsay Tarpley; F-Eniola Aluko, Madelaine Edlund, India Trotter.
Not active-Daniela (inj), Kristina Larsen (inj), Sarah Wagenfuhr (inj), Erin Walter (NR), Sarah Teegarden (NR), Kati Jo Spisak (NR), Veronica Perez (NR).

Chicago: GK-Jillian Loyden, Kelsey Davis; D-Kate Markgraf, Whitney Engen, Marian Dalmy, Ifeoma Dieke, Natalie Spilger; MF-Brittany Klein, Katie Chapman, Karen Carney, Formiga, Julianne Sitch, Jackie Santacaterina; F-Cristiane, Ella Masar, Kosovare Asllani, Casey Nogueira, Jessica McDonald.
Not active-Rapinoe (ill), Michelle Weissenhofer (NR), Lydia Vandenbergh (NR).

Last Season:
Chicago 1 (Tarpley) @ Saint Louis 0.
Saint Louis 2 (Eniola Aluko, own goal) @ Chicago 0.
Chicago 0 @ Saint Louis 2 (Welch 2).

What To Look For: Both teams had trouble scoring last season, but added several offensive players in the offseason. Last week, the combo of Boxx to Aluko worked well for Saint Louis, connecting twice. Miyama will strongly improve Athletica’s set pieces. Solo earned her 1st shutout in the opener after 8 last season. After giving up a quick goal last week, Chicago was able to play well against Sky Blue, but unable to break through on the scoreboard. Cristiane returns as one of 2009’s biggest offensive threats and the Red Stars have added Asllani. Chapman joins fellow Englishwoman Carney in the midfield, while Markgraf plays first home game after maternity leave in ’09.
Storylines: This is the first meeting between the two teams since the Jill Loyden/Lindsay Tarpley trade in January. Loyden earned two shutouts last year, one in Chicago against the Red Stars. Meanwhile, Tarpley scored the winning goal in last season’s opener. Both teams have players returning to the lineup after problems with international clearance, Madelaine Edlund and Elaine for Athletica and Formiga for the Red Stars. Red Star midfielder Megan Rapinoe is still out with illness.

Sky Blue FC at FC Gold Pride
Castro Valley Athletic Stadium, Castro Valley, California (Saturday, 7 pm pacific, 10 pm eastern)

Rosters:
Sky Blue FC: GK-Karen Bardsley, Ashley Thompson; D-Daphne Koster, Brittany Taylor, Keeley Dowling, Danielle Johnson, Kiersten Dallstream; MF-Yael Averbuch, Carli Lloyd, Heather O'Reilly, Rosana, Kacey White; F-Tasha Kai, Laura Kalmari, Jessica Landström, Katie Schoepfer.
Not active-Anita Asante (inj), Meghan Schnur (inj), Christie Rampone (maternity), Jen Branam (inj), Megan Snell (NR), Angela Salem (NR).

FC Gold Pride: GK-Nicole Barnhart, Brittany Cameron; D-Rachel Buehler, Candace Chapman, Ali Riley, Kandace Wilson, Kaley Fountain, Carrie Dew; MF-Camille Abily, Solveig Gulbrandsen, Marta, Becky Edwards, Kimberly Yokers, Kristen Graczyk; F-Christine Sinclair, Kelley O'Hara, Tiffeny Milbrett, Kiki Bosio.
Not active-Ashley Bowyer (NR), Rosie Tantillo (NR), Erin Guthrie (NR).

Last Season:
Gold Pride 1 (Dew) @ Sky Blue 1 (O'Reilly)
Sky Blue 0 @ Gold Pride 1 (Robinson)
Gold Pride 0 @ Sky Blue 2 (Rosana, Kai)

What To Look For: The injury riddled Sky Blue defense is as thin as it can get. Missing are Rampone, Asante, and Schnur, plus starting keeper Branam. Gold Pride is looking to break through following their 0-2 loss last weekend. Will Coach Montoya move Marta to forward and/or change his 4-3-3 formation? Sky Blue has many offensive weapons with Kai, Kalmari, Landström, Rosana, and O'Reilly. Goalkeeper battle is between USWNT backup Barnhart vs. English National Team backup Bardsley.
Storylines: Gold Pride needs to get their offense untracked, after losing the midfield battle in week 1. Sky Blue is a highly confident side, but will their injuries in the back cause them problems? Gold Pride has 7 rookies on their roster, 5 of whom will be dressed out for this game. Stanford alums Ali Riley and Kelley O'Hara and Santa Clara alum Kiki Bosio play their first home game just miles from where they attended college.

Philadelphia Independence at Boston Breakers
Harvard Stadium, Cambridge, Massachusetts (Sunday, 6 pm eastern) - FSC Game of the Week.

Rosters:
Philadelphia: GK-Karina LeBlanc, Val Henderson; D-Sara Larsson, Nikki Krzysik, Allison Falk, Heather Mitts, Estelle Johnson; MF-Jen Buczkowski, Caroline Seger, Lori Lindsey, Joanna Lohman; F-Amy Rodriguez, Lianne Sanderson, Holmfridur Magnusdottir, Lyndsey Patterson, Karina Maruyama.
Not active-Danesha Adams (NR), Sarah Senty (NR), Carrie Patterson (NR), Gina DiMartino (NR), Kat Reynolds (NR), Robyn Jones (NR).

Boston: GK-Ashley Phillips (probable-ribs), Alyssa Naeher; D-Amy LePeilbet, Kasey Moore, Alex Scott, Stephanie Cox, Jordan Angeli; MF-Maggie Tomecka (questionable-ankle), Kristine Lilly, Leslie Osborne, Kelly Smith, Chioma Igwe; F-Lauren Cheney, Laura Del Rio, Fabiana, Tiffany Weimer, Liz Bogus (probably-hamstring), Analisa Marquez.
Not active-Sarah Walsh (inj), Claire Zimmeck (inj), Michelle Enyeart (inj), Taryn Hemmings (NR).

Last Season: No meetings.

What To Look For: Boston needed a confidence builder after last season's crash and they got it with a win on the road vs. Freedom. Look for the Cheney-Smith-Lilly combination to give Philly's defense trouble. The Independence will look to score after coming close quite a few times last week. Karina LeBlanc will be a major factor, as usual, and will look to add to her career shutout total of 13. Coming off of a solid game, will Ashley Phillips continue as starter after Boston signed her to the active roster? Will Magnusdottir be moved back to forward with Mitts return?
Storylines: Former Breakers Heather Mitts and Amy Rodriguez return to Boston to face their old team, with at least Rodriguez wanting to prove something. Mitts returns from injury after missing the first week and Falk returns after her red card suspension dating back to 2009. English National Team players Lianne Sanderson (Phi), Kelly Smith (Bos), and Alex Scott (Bos) face off against one another. Surprisingly, Boston waived last year's starting keeper, Allison Lipsher.

Atlanta Beat at Washington Freedom
Maryland Soccer Plex, Boyds, Maryland (Sunday, 7 pm eastern)

Rosters:
Atlanta: GK-Allison Whitworth, Brett Maron; D-Kia McNeill, Stacy Bishop, Leigh Ann Robinson, Lauren Sesselmann; MF-Tobin Heath, Angie Kerr, Mami Yamaguchi, McCall Zerboni, Katie Larkin, Sophia Mundy; F-Ramona Bachmann, Johanna Rasmussen, Monica Ocampo, Amanda Cinalli.
Not active-Shelley Thompson (inj), Tracy Hamm (NR), Blakely Mattern (NR), Rebecca Nolin (NR), Marisha Schumacher-Hodge (NR), Mallori Lofton-Malachi (NR).

Washington: GK-Erin McLeod, Briana Scurry; D-Cat Whitehill, Nikki Marshall, Rebecca Moros, Jill Gilbeau, Alex Singer, Kristi Eveland, Marisa Abegg; MF-Sonia Bompastor, Sarah Huffman, Homare Sawa, Becky Sauerbrunn, Allie Long; F-Abby Wambach, Lene Mykjåland, Lisa De Vanna, Christie Welsh.
Not active-Brittany Bock (inj), Beverly Goebel (inj), Caitlin Miskel (inj), Meagan McCray (NR).

Last Season: No meetings.

What To Look For: Washington's forwards should test Atlanta's inexperienced back line often. Bachmann returns to the lineup and makes her WPS debut, but Thompson is out with an injury. Will Coach Gabarra stick with his lineup changes or will he move Bompastor to the midfield and Moros forward? Whitworth will try to keep Atlanta in the game after shutting out Philadelphia last week. With Bachmann returning and the Freedom's offense matched up against the Beat's defense, look for a lot of scoring.
Storylines: The Freedom's Abby Wambach and the Beat's Kia McNeill had a very physical meeting in their first meeting last year. Wambach was only on the field for 41 minutes for the last two times their teams met and this could be an interesting matchup. Bachman's debut is much anticipated. She earned a goal and an assist in only 35 minutes of her last exhibition match.

Trivia Question (from Wednesday): Of the 6 returning WPS teams, only two started the same goalkeeper as they did in last year's opener. Name the goalkeepers and the teams.
Answer: Hope Solo of Saint Louis Athletica and Nicole Barnhart of FC Gold Pride.
Congratulations to A1 and everyone else who got the correct answer. I'll try to be more challenging next week.

Damallsvenskan 2010, Round 2 (part 2)

Umeå - Djurgården 1-0
Goal: 53' Sofia Jakobsson (passning Emmelie Konradsson) 1-0

Kopparbergs/Göteborg-Kristianstads DFF 4-2
Goals: 5' Linnea Liljegärd (passning Marlene Sjöberg) 1-0; 8' Susanne Moberg (passning Margret Lara Vidarsdottir) 1-1; 20' Lisa Dahlkvist (passning Marlene Sjöberg) 2-1; 27' Linnea Liljegärd (passning Catrine Johansson) 3-1; 56' Susanne Moberg (passning Margret Lara Vidarsdottir) 3-2; 72' Sara Lindén (passning Linnea Liljegärd) 4-2
Sources: KDFF, K/G; see the goals (from far away but it is set to thumpy music) at the KDFF website.

The first half was dominated by K/G, which took more than twice as many shots on goal and was leading 3-1 at the half. The second half was a more back-and-forth affair from the start, and KDFF's goal in the opened the play up even more. K/G backup keeper Susanne Nilsson (replacing starting keeper Hedvig Lindahl, still serving a suspension from last week's red card) was forced to make several good saves, but it was K/G's Sara Lindén who put the home team more securely in the lead. Sounds to me, from the tone of the report, that K/G is quite relieved to have a victory... which is fair enough, but pre-season favorites aren't usually so scared by a pre-season relegation contender.

WPS Midweek Notes - April 14

Head over Heals

It takes a lot of different skills to play soccer. Speed, agility, endurance, concentration, and sometimes, a little gymnastical skill. Kiki Bosio of FC Gold Pride demonstrated her cartwheeling ability using the flip throw several times in Sunday’s match against Saint Louis Athletica. While it is somewhat of a novelty to fans who don’t see it very often, it can also be an effective offensive weapon. Bosio was able to throw the ball deep into Athletica’s penalty area every time and although Gold Pride was unable to convert any of the throws into goals, it did present some dangerous opportunities.

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Player of the Week

Eniola Aluko of Saint Louis Athletica was named WPS Player of the Week for the weekend of April 10-11. Aluko scored two goals to lead Athletica to a 2-0 win over FC Gold Pride. Aluko had won Player of the Week honors once previously in 2009. Aluko scored a goal in each half of Sunday’s match. It was the first two goal game in her WPS career.

Rookies

Out of the 65 players taken in the January draft, 22 are now full-roster players in the WPS and another 16 made WPS teams as developmental players. Out of those, 17 players made their debut in the opening weekend of WPS. Ten of those players started and there was at least one of the rookies in the starting lineup for each team. FC Gold Pride had three starters from their draft selections back in January.

The 10 starters were Lauren Cheney (Boston), Nikki Marshall (Washington), Carolyn Blank (Saint Louis), Tobin Heath (Atlanta), Whitney Engen (Chicago), Estelle Johnson (Philadelphia), Brittany Taylor (Sky Blue FC), and Kelley O’Hara, Kaley Fountain, and Ali Riley (all FC Gold Pride). Not only did Gold Pride start three of their rookies, 5 of their draft selections saw action in Sunday’s match.

Lauren Cheney was the only 2010 draft choice to score a goal last weekend, but she will have the distinction of being the first player to score a 2010 regular season goal.

Long Waits

Ashley Phillips spent the entire 2009 season on the Boston Breakers roster as a developmental player. She did not play a minute for the entire season. Such is the life of a developmental keeper in WPS. After a year of waiting, Phillips finally got her chance on Saturday and earned the victory in goal for the Breakers in their 2-1 win over the Washington Freedom. Phillips was credited with 7 saves for the match.

Sarah Wagenfuhr started last year as a developmental player for Chicago, but was released after their second game, having not played. On Sunday, she started at outside back for Athletica and played 23 minutes before coming off with an injury.

Lauren Sesselman got into one game for one minute in 2009 for Sky Blue FC. She started and played the full 90 in Atlanta’s opener on Sunday. On the other side of the field Philadelphia’s Lyndsey Patterson had appeared in only one game for 12 minutes for the Los Angeles Sol in 2009. She started and played 57 minutes for the Independence.

Midweek Notes:

Atlanta - Ramona Bachmann did not make the trip to Philadelphia because of illness after scoring a goal and an assist in Atlanta’s final exhibition game in Tulsa…..Allison Whitworth picked up her 2nd career shutout in WPS. Her previous shutout against the Los Angeles Sol in 2009 also ended in a scoreless tie…..The number one overall pick in the 2010 draft, Tobin Heath, played 89 minutes in Sunday’s game.

Boston – Last season, Kelly Smith scored a goal in each of the first 4 games in which she appeared for the Breakers and she started 2010 out in the same fashion with a goal against the Freedom…..The Breakers became only the 2nd team in WPS history to start a developmental keeper in goal with Ashley Phillips on Saturday. Washington had started Kati Jo Spisak three times in 2009…..Lauren Cheney scored her first career WPS goal just 6 minutes into Saturday’s contest.

Chicago – Cristiane was credited with taking 9 shots in the Red Stars loss to Sky Blue, a total which easily leads the league…..In the continuation of a disturbing trend, Chicago has now been shut out 12 times in 21 matches over two seasons…..Kate Markgraf played the full 90 minutes after missing the 2009 season on maternity leave.

FC Gold Pride – Five of Gold Pride’s draft selections saw action on Sunday. Kelley O’Hara, Kaley Fountain, and Ali Riley started, while Becky Edwards and Kiki Bosio subbed in…..Kandace Wilson came off the bench, seeing her first regular season action since she was injured in a May 24th match against Los Angeles in 2009…..Four of Gold Pride’s 5 international players were not with the team in 2009. Camille Abily and Marta were with Los Angeles, Candace Chapman was with Boston, and Solveig Gulbrandsen did not play in WPS last season.

Philadelphia – Karina LeBlanc earned her 13th career shutout on Sunday against Atlanta…..Philadelphia had the largest attendance of the WPS opening weekend with 6,028…..Amy Rodriguez was credited with 6 shots for the Independence against Atlanta, more than in any of her appearances for the Breakers last season.

Saint Louis – Eniola Aluko became the 3rd Athletica player to score two goals in one game. The other two were Daniela and Christie Welsh…..Shannon Boxx became the first Athletica player to record two assists in one game…..Carolyn Blank was the lowest draft choice to start for a WPS team last weekend. Blank was Athletica’s 5th round selection, the 46th overall pick in the draft.

Sky Blue FC – Heather O’Reilly, who tied for SBFC’s lead in assists last season with 3, picked up her first assist on Sunday…..Karen Bardsley picked up the 2nd shutout of her career. Her first came against FC Gold Pride on August 5, 2009, when she was a last second replacement for an injured Jen Branam…..Sky Blue has now shutout the Chicago Red Stars all 5 times they have played them. They have a 4-0-1 record against the Red Stars with a 5-0 goal differential.

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Washington Freedom – Allie Long was the only non-national team player to score a goal this past weekend…..While Abby Wambach is primarily known for her goal scoring ability, she now has 6 career WPS assists, which ties her for 1st place in that category…..The Freedom have now given up multiple goals in 11 of their 22 matches in 2009-10 including the playoff game.

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Opening Week Trivia: Of the 6 returning WPS teams, only two started the same goalkeeper as they did in last year's opener. Name the goalkeepers and the teams. (Answer in the weekend preview later this week).

WPS Weekend Wrap Up

A number of universities are well represented in WPS, including UNC, Notre Dame, Portland, UCLA, Stanford, and Santa Clara. One university that has been developing a number of WPS players as of late is Florida State. Sunday's game between Saint Louis and FC Gold Pride included 3 ex-FSU stars and a former FSU assistant coach. Shown here (from left) India Trotter of Athletica, Assistant Coach Paul Rogers (Athletica's goalkeeper coach), Becky Edwards of FC Gold Pride, and Sarah Wagenfuhr of Athletica. All three players played in the match.

Athletica defender/midfielder Elaine wasn't able to play in Sunday's game because there was a delay in getting her international clearance. But that didn't stop the Brazilian National Team player from participating in another way. She joined Laclede's Army, a supporters group for Saint Louis Athletica, in their cheering section. She got into the spirit of the match by spray painting her hair green, sitting in with the group's drummers and doing her part in supporting her team from the stands. She is hoping to join her teammates on the field soon.

Boston 2, Washington 1-The Breakers got goals from Lauren Cheney and Kelly Smith to defeat the Freedom. Ashley Phillips got the victory in goal in her first WPS action. Allie Long scored the Freedom's loan goal.

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Saint Louis 2, FC Gold Pride 0-Eniola Aluko scored both goals as the Athletica won their home opener. Shannon Boxx had an excellent match, assisting on both goals. The Marta-led Gold Pride were unable to get their offense untracked. Hope Solo earned the shutout in goal.

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Sky Blue FC 1, Chicago 0-The defending champions won their home opener. Natasha Kai scored early on an assist from Heather O'Reilly and SBFC was able to hold on for the win. Karen Bardsley earned the shutout in goal. Jill Loyden gave up just the one goal in her first start for the Red Stars.

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Philadelphia 0, Atlanta 0-The Independence drew over 6000 fans for their home opener which ended in a scoreless tie. Karina LeBlanc (Philadelphia) and Allison Whitworth (Atlanta) earned shutouts. Several key players were missing from the match including Allison Falk (red card in '09 championship game) and Heather Mitts (injury) for Philly and Ramona Bachmann (illness) and Monica Ocampo (illness) for Atlanta.

Boxx and Aluko Combine To Defeat Gold Pride in Opener

Eniola Aluko is happy to have Shannon Boxx as a teammate. Aluko scored two goals, both assisted by her new teammate Boxx, to give Saint Louis Athletica a 2-0 victory over FC Gold Pride in their home opener. Aluko's brace, one on each side of the break, marked the first time she has scored two goals in a WPS game.

The lineups were Solo, Wagenfuhr, Fletcher, Ellertson, Weber, Blank, Chalupny, Boxx, DiMartino, Miyama, and Aluko for Saint Louis, playing a 4-5-1. For Gold Pride, the lineup was Barnhart, Riley, Chapman, Buehler, Fountain, Abily, Gulbrandsen, Marta, O'Hara, Milbrett, and Sinclair in a 4-3-3.

The opening 30 minutes were mainly played in the middle of the field with neither team offering more than a mild threat at a goal. Two substitutions were made early on, Niki Cross for an injured Sarah Wagenfuhr for Saint Louis and Kandace Wilson for Kaley Fountain for Gold Pride. The first good chance of the match came in the 31st minute as Lori Chalupny sent one barely over the crossbar. In the 35th minute, Christine Sinclair placed a short cross into Camille Abily at the 6 yard box with her back to the goal, but the defender held her ground and Abily was unable to turn to get a shot.

Saint Louis started to exert more pressure at that point and Athletica finally broke through in the 39th minute. Shannon Boxx sent a perfect ball through to Eniola Aluko and she was able to beat Nicole Barnhart one-on-one lower right. Saint Louis went into the break with a 1-0 lead.

The second half started with Gold Pride putting sustained pressure on for the first 3 minutes, but not getting a good shot off. From there, Athletica started to control the midfield and put forth some chances. Lori Chalupny was able to split two defenders and feed the ball to Aluko, who nearly had another goal, but the shot sailed wide.

In the 62nd minute, Athletica earned a corner. Aya Miyama sent a perfect ball into to Boxx who headed the ball down from about 8 yards out. Aluko, not taking any chances, finished it neatly past Barnhart to give Athletica a 2-0 lead. Aluko gave much credit to Boxx for both goals. "Two great assists from (Boxx), so I have a lot to thank her for my goals today."

The 2nd goal seem to deflate the Gold Pride side. They brought Becky Edwards in for Gulbrandsen a few minutes later, while Athletica relieved Tina Ellertson who was hobbled a bit with India Trotter, moving Blank to defender and Boxx back to defensive mid.

Gold Pride's best chance may have come a few minutes later. Tiffeny Milbrett got free to take a hard shot from the 18, but Hope Solo was able to leap and parry the ball, which she quickly gathered in before any Gold Pride players could get there. In the 82nd minute, Marta burst into the right side of the box, but was forced to a bad angle and was only able to earn a corner out of the opportunity. From that point on, it was only a matter of running out the clock for Athletica.

Coach Jorge Barcellos has put Shannon Boxx in more of an attacking role for Athletica, rather than her normal defensive midfield position, and she responded with two assists and a very strong performance. Boxx talked about the team's mindset for the match. "Lori Chalupny said it great right before the game. Let's show everyone what Athletica's about, and that we're strong, we're hard, we're going to come into every tackle, scratch, fight...whatever it takes to come out with a win and I think we did a great job of that today."

Of Boxx, Aluko had nothing but praise. "She brings everything you would expect, experience, she's played in big games all her life, and she's a great communicator and a great midfielder all around."

Athletica did a nice job of controlling the midfield as the game wore on and their defense was up to the task, keeping the talented offensive unit of Gold Pride off the board. Gold Pride seemed to have numbers going forward a few times, but were unable to make good use of it in the final third.

Coach Jorge Barcellos was very happy with his team's play. "All the team played very good today." He was especially proud of his midfield, who he gave much praise for keeping the pressure off of his defenders. He also sees two of his newest additions to the midfield helping out Aluko a lot. "I think (with) the support of Boxx and Miyama that Eniola will make a lot of goals with us this year."

Next week, Saint Louis travel to Chicago to meet the Red Stars in a Saturday match. FC Gold Pride returns to the bay area where they will meet defending champions Sky Blue FC in Gold Pride's home opener.

Cheney Notches First Goal in Breakers' 2-1 Victory

The Boston Breakers defeated the Washington Freedom by a 2-1 margin in the WPS season opener. And for Lauren Cheney, it's been quite a 6 month run. First, she helps lead UCLA into the NCAA semifinals, then she joins the USWNT and scores 5 goals in the first 3 months of the year. Now, she can add a WPS goal to her resume. It took just 6 minutes for Cheney to earn her first WPS goal as she gave the Boston Breakers an early 1-0 lead.

Kelly Smith doubled the lead with a goal at the 20 minute mark. Boston took a 2-0 lead into halftime. Allie Long of the Freedom made it close, scoring in the 87th minute, but Washington was unable to come up with an equalizer and Boston took the opening game 2-1. Developmental keeper, Ashley Phillips, saw her first action in goal for the Breakers and earned the victory.

Two cautions were handed out in the match, one to Fabiana just before the break and one in the 2nd half to Sonia Bompastor.

Damallsvenskan 2010, Round 2 (part 1)

Second round games are spread out over the week due in part to Umeå's Champion's League campaign, and so two more games will be played on Wednesday.

Sunnanå - Hammarby 1-1
Goals: 85' Carina Holmberg (Marina Sandström), 1-0; 91' Nazanin Vaseghpanah (Daniella Chamoun) 1-1
Sources: Damfotboll, Svenskfotboll

Lots of action in the last five minutes of the game, with Sandström assisting Holmberg's goal, and then nearly assisting Matilda Forslund on a second goal that would have secured Sunnanå's victory. Hammarby had picked up their game in the last quarter, and Vaseghpanah's low shot from just outside the box gave them the equalizer in added time. Sunnanå coach Janne Hallberg said the team was more cohesive than they were in last week's loss to Kristianstad, and mentioned the good efforts of Sandström, Josefin Johansson, and Alexandra Nilsson while also noting that Perpetua Nkwocha and Luana Gomes have not yet optimized their play. Hammarby's assistant coach Annelie Norén stressed that the draw was "morally important" for her team, as two one-goal losses in a row would have been "not so fun." She mentioned especially Matilda Agné and Anna Lindblom for their work on Hammarby's defense.


Tyresö - KIF Örebro 0-1
Goal: 52' Sanna Talonen (Marie Hammarström) 0-1
Sources: Tyresö, Damfotboll

This game was technically Tyresö's home opener, but it was moved to Hammarby's home field Kanalplan in Stockholm, due to ongoing construction at their home arena. The change didn't please everyone: apparently a few Tyresö fans went to their home field first, and Örebro coach Richard Holmlund complained about the facilities afterwards, saying it should not be approved for top-flight football. The game was an even affair, the goal coming early in the second half off Hammarström's cross in from the left where Talonen met it well at about the 11 meter mark. "We played a good team today, probably the best newcomers for many years," said Holmlund, who said he was happy that the game ended as it did. Tyresö coach Tino Katsoulakis was sorry that the game did not end in a draw. "Toward the end we had many chances."

Tyresö's real home opener will come at the unveiling of their home arena Bollmoravallen on April 24 against Kristianstad.


AIK - Linköpings FC 0-2
Goals: 50' Charlotte Rohlin (Linda Sällström) 0-1; 64' Linda Sällström (Maria Karlsson) 0-2
Sources: svenskfotboll, Linköping

Reigning champion LFC was feeling confident coming off last week's win against pre-season favorites Kopparbergs/Göteborg, and has now taken its second straight victory. LFC started agressively and had three corner kicks within the first ten minutes. AIK's Emelie Ölander took AIK's first and only shot on goal in the 14th minute, but LFC had more chances in the first half. Their first goal came early in the second, from a close-range shot by Rohlin after an LFC corner kick; they extended their lead shortly thereafter on a distance shot by Sällström from the right side. Josefin Öqvist had a few chances, and must have been quite active as she got a yellow card in the 79th. LFC coach Jörgen Petersson praised especially Faith Ikidi and Rohlin for their strength in the defense, saying that it left goalkeeper Sofia Lungren with little to do.


LdB FC Malmö - Jitex BK 6-1
Goals: 5' Kathryn Gill (Elena Sadiku) 1-0; 12' Manon Melis (Kathryn Gill) 2-0; 13' Annica Sjölund (Kathlene Fernström) 2-1; 42' Kathryn Gill (Manon Melis) 3-1; 47' Elena Sadiku 4-1; 59' Kathryn Gill 5-1; 79' Lina Nilsson 6-1
Sources: Jitex, Damfotboll

After last week's shock victory against Umeå, Jitex must have been feeling pretty good about themselves; this week, perhaps it's back to reality. Their own report says that they resisted pretty well in the first half, but that the second half was all LdB. LdB coach Martin Sjögren generously agreed with that, saying that the score first half was not so lopsided as the numbers made it appear, and that Gill's 3-1 goal came out of nowhere. Still, Jitex is looking forward to next week's game against Hammarby, at which they think have a more reasonable chance.

For its part, LdB seemed quite pleased to be able to spread the credit around. The lion's share went to Kathryn Gill, who made her home-field debut in some style by scoring a hat-trick and assisting on a fourth; the damfotboll report wonders whether she will become the crucial player for LdB, being tall, safe with the ball, and as strong with head balls as Nilla Fischer. "If you have such good teammates, that makes it easy," said Gill afterwards. Also getting mention was youngster Elena Sadiku (F94) from LdB's development team, who assisted the first goal and then scored one of her own just after the second half began.

More than one thousand people attended this match, the best attendance for the season so far. In the wake of last week's red card to Göteborg's Hedvig Lindahl, people are watching the referees more closely than usual, but a single yellow card was given (to Elin Sandgren of Jitex) and apparently no one had any cause to complain about anything.