WPS Weekly – Tuesday, May 19

Weekend Report
For the eighth weekend in a row, the Los Angeles Sol maintained their stranglehold
on first place in the WPS standings, taking a 1-0 decision over Sky Blue FC on
Friday night on a fantastic breakaway goal by forward Marta late in the game. The
Chicago Red Stars dropped their second straight game at home with a poor offensive
performance in a 1-0 defeat to surging FC Gold Pride, while the Boston Breakers drew
1-1 with the Washington Freedom, who played without Abby Wambach as she served a
one-game suspension handed down for a reckless tackle in week six.

Los Angeles Sol 1, Sky Blue FC 0

Carson, CA, (May 15, 2009) – The Los Angeles Sol defeated Sky Blue FC by a 1-0
margin Friday night at The Home Depot Center. A strike from Brazilian forward Marta
was the difference as Los Angeles won its second straight match against their
cross-country rivals and maintained their position atop the WPS standings for the
eighth week in a row.

The Sol (4-1-2, 14 points) nearly opened the scoring in the 11th minute when Aya
Miyama’s low shot slipped through Sky Blue (1-3-2) goalkeeper Jenni Branam’s hands
and squirted to Aly Wagner on the end line, but her rebound went untouched across
the goal mouth and Sky Blue cleared it out of danger.

The next close call for the Sol came in the 21st minute, as forward Han Duan played
a low ball perfectly to Wagner’s right foot just inside the penalty area, but
Wagner’s shot flew wide and high of the goal. Neither team threatened again in the
first half and the game was scoreless after 45 minutes.

The Sol finally got on the board ten minutes from time on a spectacular individual
effort from Marta.  After collecting a long ball from Camille Abily at the top of
the penalty area, she split two defenders and put her shot past a sprawling Branham
to seal the victory. Los Angeles travels to Northern California for a Memorial Day
Weekend match-up with rival FC Gold Pride. Sky Blue FC plays at Washington.

FC Gold Pride 1, Chicago Red Stars 0

Bridgeview, Ill. (May 16, 2009)– Christine Sinclair scored the lone goal as FC Gold
Pride defeated the Chicago Red Stars, 1-0, Saturday night in front of 4,884 at
Toyota Park. It was the second consecutive loss for the Red Stars after starting the
season undefeated through four games.

Sinclair’s goal came unassisted in the 30th minute.  Adriane drove into the box
along the right side of the end line and crossed to Tiffeny Milbrett, whose shot
bounced off Chicago goalkeeper Caroline Jönsson.  The deflection went right to
Sinclair, who was able to walk the ball across the goal mouth for her second tally
of the season.

For the second consecutive game Chicago managed just three shots on goal, but the
Red Stars still had several outstanding opportunities. In the 27th minute Megan
Rapinoe’s cross from the left side of the box just missed a diving Cristiane, who
would have had a clear header to the net. Seven minutes later Karen Carney put a
shot off FC Gold Pride keeper Nicole Barnhart; the rebound came to Lindsay Tarpley
who just missed the net to the left.

FC Gold Pride outshot Chicago, 12-7, including five shots on goal for the visitors.
A game-high six shots were credited to Sinclair.  Carney and Cristiane, who played a
full match for the first time this season,
each led the Red Stars with two shots.

With the win, FC Gold Pride improves to 3-3-1 and passes the Red Stars (2-2-2) in
the WPS standings for third place.

Boston Breakers 1, Washington Freedom 1

Cambridge, Mass. (May 17, 2009) – Boston defender Alex Scott scored the equalizer in
the second half to ensure the Breakers’ kept their undefeated home record in a 1-1
draw versus the Washington Freedom in Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) action on
Sunday evening at Harvard Stadium in Cambridge, Mass.

Scott’s goal came in the 49th minute when Christine Latham played a ball forward
toward Scott, who then sprinted past a Freedom defender on the right side into the
box and blasted a shot over Freedom goalkeeper Erin McLeod into the top center of
the goal. It was the first goal of the season for the England international, and
Latham’s first assist.

Washington got on the board first with a goal in the 33rd minute.  Australian
forward Lisa De Vanna set up Rebecca Moros with a through ball to the right side of
the penalty area, and Moros put the ball in the bottom right corner for the 1-0
lead.

With the draw, the Breakers (3-2-2) remain in second place, three points behind
first-place Los Angeles Sol. Washington (1-2-3) moves into sole possession of fifth
place.

“This was probably the highest level game we have played this year,” said Breakers
head coach Tony DiCicco. “It was very fast and quick.

“I was proud of the way we played in the second half. We went for three points
tonight, but give Washington credit for their exceptional first half. After their
goal, we finally started to play our game and put together some good chances.”

The Freedom competed well without star forward Abby Wambach, who sat out due to a
one game suspension. Washington enjoyed the better of the chances up until the first
goal, and had nearly scored just moments earlier. A deflection in midfield in the
30th minute sent De Vanna on a one-on-one with Boston goalkeeper Kristin Luckenbill,
but Luckenbill dove for the save.

Boston responded for the remainder of the half with numerous opportunities, but was
unable to get on the end of them. The Breakers continued their momentum into the
second half, leading to Scott’s equalizer.

The Breakers out-shot the Freedom, 14-9, and dominated much of the second half but
were unable to capitalize on the opportunities to come away with the three points.


Philadelphia Women’s Professional Soccer announce team name: Philadelphia
Independence
Also unveiled are the Philadelphia Independence colors of Yellow, Steel Grey and
Light Blue and the official team motto, “We the People”
PHILADELPHIA, PA, (May 18, 2009)  Philadelphia Women’s Professional Soccer,
(Philadelphia Women’s Pro Soccer LLC),  is proud to announce the official team name,
Philadelphia Independence, to the city and its passionate sports fans. Along with
this announcement, the team also unveiled its colors and official team motto.
“Today’s announcement marks the beginning of what will be a permanent and proud
presence in Philadelphia professional sports,” said David Halstead, Independence
CEO/President.  “Through its play on the field, support of its communities, and
commitment to its fans, the Philadelphia Independence will earn the right to be
called a model sports organization.  Such an organization is deserving of the name
Independence, and all the history, character, and spirit that
goes along with that name.”

Consistent with Philadelphia’s storied history, and with the determination and
persistence of the country’s forefathers, the name Independence represents many of
the admirable characteristics of Philadelphia, including foresight, leadership,
bravery, loyalty to cause, and defeating common enemies.  As General Manager and
Head Coach Matt Driver explains, “the players will proudly wear the name
Independence on their jerseys, as together we pledge our commitment to the fans of
Philadelphia and to each other as we battle foes and make Philadelphians proud of
the talent and toughness of the team.  This confidence and attitude is illustrative
of the tradition of Independence.”

Additionally, the selected colors of yellow, steel grey and light blue each depict a
representation of Philadelphia’s history, hard-nosed attitude, and accomplishments.
Yellow commemorates the Swedish settlers who first came to Philadelphia in 1638.
Steel Grey represents the city’s rich history in manufacturing and heavy industry.
Light Blue is borrowed from Philadelphia’s own city flag and symbolizes the proud
work ethic of this city’s blue collar heritage.

Philadelphia Independence will build its foundation on strong leadership and vision
for excellence, as well as team work and empowerment toward creativity, just as our
founding fathers did as expressed in the first three words of our country’s
Constitution.  Thus, the parallel to our history brings the Philadelphia
Independence official team motto, “We the People.”

Philadelphia Independence will begin play in 2010 and has already announced the
accomplished Olympic gold medalist, Staci Wilson to the position of Assistant Coach.
Fans are encouraged to sign up now for season ticket requests on the official
Philadelphia Independence web site, www.wpsphillyindependence.com.

The web site will also provide updates and information about Philadelphia
Independence team developments and activities. Sponsorship opportunities are also
available and early sign on will offer sponsors the opportunity to grow and fully
embed their brand in the full slate of opportunities available at the team’s
professional, minor league, and youth level programs.

With team name, colors, and motto selected, the Philadelphia Independence continues
to strengthen its identity.  The team is currently in the process of designing and
developing the official team logo and crest.  Details will be released in the near
future about the unveiling of the official logo as well as player signings during an
Independence Weekend announcement event this July.

A complete electronic copy of the team’s media kit including detailed team
information, bios, ticketing and sponsorship information is available on the press
section of the Philadelphia Independence’s web site, www.wpsphillyindependence.com.

Boston vs. Los Angeles Match-up on August 9 Moved to National Television Game: WPS
Sunday on FSC
WPS and Fox Soccer Channel have made a scheduling change to WPS Sunday on FSC with
the final regular season game on Fox Soccer Channel switching to the August 9
match-up between the Boston Breakers and the Los Angeles Sol at Harvard Stadium,
Cambridge, MA. The game will now kick off at 6pm ET/3pm PT and will be shown live on
FSC.

The original national television game of FC Gold Pride vs. Saint Louis Athletica at
Buck Shaw Stadium will now kick off at 8pm ET/5pm PT and will conclude regular
season play in WPS.

Line Up Transactions

Boston Breakers: English outside back, Alex Scott secured her first goal of the
season Sunday, lifting her team to a 1-1 tie in the second half against the
Washington Freedom. WPS #1 Draft Pick, Amy Rodriguez, came in off the bench in the
second half for the third consecutive match. Canadian, Candace Chapman, entered a
match for the first time.

Chicago Red Stars: Jill Oakes made her second appearance with the Red Stars Saturday
tallying her minutes played to 35. The FC Gold Pride #1 October draft-pick, was
released from the Bay Area team during preseason roster selections, but the Red
Stars later picked her up.

FC Gold Pride: After making her first appearance in a match in Week Six against Sky
Blue FC and earning an assist, Brazilian forward, Adriane started her first match
this weekend. Her starting position bumped fancy footed, Tiffany Weimer, to the
bench until she later subbed in for Formiga in the 82nd minute.

Los Angeles Sol: After staying off the scoreboard since Week Four, Brazilian
superstar Marta scored the only goal of the match last Friday, against Sky Blue FC.
Canadian goalkeeper, Karina LeBlanc earned a league leading, sixth shutout.

Sky Blue FC: U.S. Women’s National Team star, Natasha Kai went down with what
appeared to be a serious injury and exited Friday’s match on a stretcher. Jen
Buczkowski replaced her in the 84th minute. Team officials have called the injury a
quad contusion.

Washington Freedom: Long awaited Canadian goalkeeper, Erin McLeod, played the full
ninety Sunday, after having just one week of training with the Freedom. Washington
defender, Joanna Lohman, entered her first match in the 62nd minute of play. Lohman
subbed in for Australian forward, Lisa De Vanna, but sat atop the Freedom backline
in a defensive midfield position.

Quotables From Notables
A few words from players and coaches…

“Even though it was an individual play that I scored the goal on, it was the result
of a lot of hard work by a lot of my teammates,” said Los Angeles Sol forward Marta.

“Overall, we were unlucky not to come away with a win,” said Sky Blue FC head coach
Ian Sawyers. “The difference was Marta’s breakaway that led to the only goal of the
game.”

“Well that’s why she was my number one pick in the international draft,” said FC
Gold Pride head coach Albertin Montoya on Brazilian midfielder, Formiga. “Honestly,
she’s the engine of the Brazilian national team and I knew that as a coach.  If you
were to speak with Jorge, the national team coach, if you were to start a team he
would pick Formiga as his first pick.  What she does goes unnoticed because it’s the
work she puts in.  The right plays at the right time, she tackles, she’s tough, she
defends, she gets into the attack.”

“I think the first half our attacking play was exciting,” said Chicago Red Stars
head coach Emma Hayes. “It’s the best we’ve been all season.  Nonetheless we didn’t
score.  At the end of the day we just didn’t score a goal.”


“I really should have scored that one at the end,” said Boston Breakers’ Kristine
Lilly. “It was a great ball and I just didn’t put it in.  I would love to have that
chance again.”

“This was probably the highest level game we’ve played this year,” said Boston
Breakers head coach Tony DiCicco. “It was very fast and quick.”


WPS Player of the Week: Week 8

FC Gold Pride forward Christine Sinclair has been selected WPS's Player of the Week
for Week 8 after leading the Bay Area club to a 1-0 triumph at Chicago. The Canadian
star scored in the 30th minute, knocking home a rebound for her second goal of the
season, and was constantly dangerous as Gold Pride had the better of the game. The
WPS Player of the Week award is voted upon by a panel of journalists from the North
American Soccer Reporters.

The WPS Player of the Week award is voted upon by a panel of journalists from the
North American Soccer Reporters.

Week 1: Aya Miyama (Los Angeles Sol)
Week 2: Marta (Los Angeles Sol)
Week 3: Kelly Smith (Boston Breakers)
Week 4: Aly Wagner (Los Angeles Sol)
Week 5: Abby Wambach (Washington Freedom)
Week 6: Sonia Bompastor (Washington Freedom)
Week 7: Lori Chalupny (Saint Louis Athletica)
Week 8: Christine Sinclair (FC Gold Pride)

Note: Weeks 1-2 selected by The Soccer Magazine; weeks 3-7 selected by North
American Soccer Reporters panel.


Goals by the Numbers
Top Scorers – Boston Breakers’ Kelly Smith (4), Los Angeles Sol’s Marta, (4)

Goals by Team – Washington Freedom (10), Boston Breakers (9), FC Gold Pride (8),
Chicago Red Stars (7), Los Angeles Sol (7), Saint Louis Athletica (4), Sky Blue FC
(3)

Total Goals – 48 goals scored since WPS Inaugural Match on March 29, 2009 with an
average of 2.18 goals per game.

Quickest Goal in League Play: Kelly Smith in 2nd minute of play, Boston Breakers vs.
Los Angeles Sol (5/2/09)

Quickest back-to-back goals by one team: 2 goals in 3 minutes – 42 minute, 45 minute
– from Marta in Los Angeles Sol vs. Sky Blue FC match (4/5/09)

Most Goals in One Game by one team: 4, Washington Freedom 4-3 FC Gold Pride
(4/26/09) and Chicago Red Stars 4-0 Boston Breakers (4/25/09)

Most Goals in One Game by both teams: 7, Washington Freedom 4-3 FC Gold Pride (4/26/09)

Most Goals in a Game by a player: 2, Marta (Los Angeles Sol – 4/5/09), Abby Wambach
(Washington Freedom – 4/26/09), Daniela (Saint Louis Athletica – 5/3/09), Sonia
Bompastor (Washington Freedom – 5/3/09)

Current Longest Scoring Drought: 218 minutes over 3 games, Chicago Red Stars


The Weekly Forecast

Saturday, May 23

Chicago Red Stars vs. Saint Louis Athletica (8:30 pm ET)
Toyota Park, Bridgeview, IL
The Midwest rivalry continues as Chicago and Saint Louis play for the second time
this year. Chicago pulled out a late 1-0 victory at Saint Louis in Week 2 in the
home opener for Saint Louis. The two teams have gone in different directions of
late. Saint Louis is 1-0-2 earning five points in its last three games while Chicago
is 0-2-0 recently and struggling to find the net since their 4-0 thrashing of Boston
in mid April. With four players called up for national team, Chicago looks to be
missing a formidable group of players to U.S. team duty this weekend, but Saint
Louis will also be without key players Hope Solo and Lori Chalupny. A win by Saint
Louis would pull the side even with Chicago in the standings at 2-2-2. Chicago is
playing the fifth of five straight home games before going
on the road for 4 games.


Sunday, May 24

Washington Freedom vs. Sky Blue FC
RFK Stadium, Washington DC (4:30 pm ET)
The first WPS-MLS doubleheader of the season will see Washington Freedom host Sky
Blue FC in a match-up of east coast rivals. The Freedom will be without star forward
Abby Wambach for the second consecutive week as she is out for national team duty
but look for speedy forward Lisa DeVanna, midfielder Lori Lindsey and exciting
Frenchwoman Sonia Bompastor to feel in adequately. Lifted by the arrival of Canadian
international Erin McLeod in goal, the Freedom gave up only one goal or less on
defense last week for just the second time this season in their 1-1 draw with
Boston. Sky Blue FC has struggled to find the net with their 2-0 victory over
Chicago their only real offensive outburst. A pivotal game between the #5 and
#7-placed teams in the league as they slowly close in on the second half
of the season with an eye towards that fourth playoff position in the WPS standings.


FC Gold Pride vs. Los Angeles Sol (7 pm ET – FSC) NOTE: 1 hour later than usual
Buck Shaw Stadium, Santa Clara, CA
The final game of WPS Rivalry Week sees FC Gold Pride hosting Marta and the Los
Angeles Sol. The Sol’s possession-minded midfielder Shannon Boxx will be absent for
U.S. team duty as will Karina Leblanc with Canada but perhaps the biggest hole could
be Brittany Bock who has been a standout rookie this season on the Sol’s backline.
Likewise FC Gold Pride will be without their starting keeper Nicole Barnhart who has
come up big this season and a key defender in Rachel Buehler. Look for Los Angeles
and FC Gold to both have offensive breakouts in a potentially high-scoring affair at
Buck Shaw Stadium despite the 1-0 victory for LA the first time these two teams met
at The Home Depot Center.


Off Week

The Boston Breakers are off this weekend.

On TV

Please note this weekend’s TV game starts one hour later than usual. The WPS Sunday
on FSC match between FC Gold Pride and the Los Angeles Sol will air on the Fox
Soccer Channel on Sunday, May 24 at 7 pm ET.

League Standings

TEAM                         W L T                 GF         GA                POINTS
Los Angeles Sol                 4-1-2                7        2                14 points
Boston Breakers                 3-2-2                9        9                11 points
FC Gold Pride                 3-3-1                8        8                10 points
Chicago Red Stars                 2-2-2                6        4                8 points
Washington Freedom                 1-2-3                10        13                6 points
Saint Louis Athletica                 1-2-2                4        6                5 points
Sky Blue FC                         1-2-3                3        5                5 points